Soleil
You're not overstepping. You have every right to know. I received a few pieces of threatening correspondence from a source who I'd say boasts a very questionable mentality. It seemed to make more sense if everyone was close by while I try to sort this out.

-sits at the edge of the bed-
-lowers gaze-
No, you're not wrong. I know I am. I can't help but feel selfish with your time.
-sighs-
I'm sorry.
eventually crawls under the covers to her-
I love you. I want you to take time for yourself and your friend. I really am sorry. It's not fair to make you feel guilty.

I don't dislike her. I'd just like to spend time with you.
-shakes head-
I said do what you want to do. Did I say something wrong?
-squints-
I'm not happy about someone else monopolizing your time. But I'm not trying to prevent it.
-dismissive hand wave-
I'm exhausted. So, yes. Bed.

And chill.
-plants hand at her smaller back-
Sure. I took the liberty of putting his stuff in the drawers. Want you guys to be comfortable here.
-kisses back of her hair-
Would really like the two of you to stay here with me.

I'd be happy to meet with her.
-chews thoughtfully-
So, beach? Or we could swim in the pool here. They have one of those... Infinity ones. Whatever that means.
-shrugs-
Maybe just a relaxing day, yeah? Could visit the spa, too. They have a great daycare.

-moves to serve Wilson-
Just trying to spoil you, too.
-gentle smile-
Nugget, dude?
-dutifully cuts into bite-size pieces for son-
I was serious about the beach, unless you already have plans with Vee.
-reaches over, steals a piece of pancake-
And if that's the case, I'm happy to watch the little man while you're with your friend.

Why shouldn't he be spoiled? He's a good boy.
-tilts hit-
I spoil his mommy, too.
-clears throat-
I keep the people in my life satisfied. Some more than others.
-idle smirk, walks over to the door-
-returns with a cart of food-
More champagne?
-grins-

Just the Legos and the Nerf guns. I swear.
-holds up hands innocently-
I just wanted him to have something to do. That's all.
-pats Wilson's head, walks around the sofa-
Don't worry about it.
-kisses her forehead-
Come hang out with us?

No, why would you think that?
-sets down champagne-
-lifts her up onto the bed-
On the contrary. All of this dying and moving to another body has me no longer fearing the unknown.
-kisses her neck-
So I’d like to take my family to the beach.

-enormous grin-
-quiet whisper-
Missed you, baby.
-nuzzles her hair-
Hey, buddy!
-sets her down, stoops down to his level-
You're going to love your en-suite. And I picked up a few things for you.
-looks over at Soleil-
Legos. All of the legos.

He's just as easily standing them, one around under her knees, the other supporting her back. "How about I tuck you into bed, and I'll start packing?" He places a kiss against her forehead as he slowly and quietly begins to make his way up the stairs with her in his arms. "I'll stay the night. Hold you as long as you'd like, okay? And in the morning, we'll get Wilson's things together. Won't be as difficult."

"Hey." He whispers, a finger pushing her chin up so her gaze meets his. "Same flight. We'll go together. Okay?" He nods slowly, lips finding hers in a tender and reassuring kiss. "Nothing is going to happen to me, Soleil. I promise." He squeezes her once more, soaking up the prolonged proximity that had become so scarce in recent months. "I love you, Soleil Whitaker."

Elouise is sitting... wherever it is she's sitting, in whatever place she's traveled, with or without Logan by her side. When her phone rings, she swipes to accept. "Soleil." She breaths her name into the receiver, only knowing she's there by the sound of her own breath. "Look, I have to make this quick. Then this phone goes bye-bye."

She shuts her eyes, shaking her head. "I can't exactly explain, but I will be able to soon. He wasn't safe, and I think you know why. When I know you can, I'll let you see him. Take him, even. Just... Not now. And I can't explain any further. Just... He's safe." And then the phone disconnects. Any other calls would reach a disconnected line.

"No, baby... That's not at all what I'm suggesting." He rubs his eyelids, fighting the creeping exhaustion of the day. "Please, come here." He stands, pulling her back in even as her overwrought emotions urge her to combat his gentle yet firm grip. "There's nothing we can do. But she is predictable... And I'm sure she'll be back."

He pulls her back to the couch, coaxing her back into his hold, a hand rubbing rhythmic circles into her back. "I think you and Wilson should go to LA, tomorrow. The earliest flight you can. And I'll follow in a day or two. We'll have Rhiannon leave the brownstone as well, just to be safe. My priority, Soleil, are the people still under this roof, because I know Logan is safe. But that doesn't mean I won't find him. Okay?"

"Soleil, it's... It's going to be okay, baby." He quickly crashes into her, strong arms folding around her frame - feeling smaller than she usually does. He lets her bury her wails against his chest, tears staining his dark tee. She shakes, the motions caught against the barrel of his chest. The angel can only be her beacon of comfort, however unsurprised he won't admit to being.

He was never truly theirs, a threat of Elouise returning for her ill begotten son loomed overhead. It's a long while, standing in silence turns into Daniel, deftly lifting her limp form and carrying her to the sofa, where she tucks into him in an infantile fashion. "You won't like to hear what I have to say..." He murmurs into her hair. "But I hope at this point, you've come to know I only speak as much truth as needs to be said."

He lets the statement linger, allowing her to focus on him before he continues. "Elouise loves you... I know - you challenge what kind of love that may be. But I've come to accept that love... Knowing love is a selfish thing. I've accepted the many times you've fallen into one another, hurt, antagonized each other - never straying far from one another's lives, try as you might. And keeping Logan safe, loving him as we both have, was always a reflection of the devotion you once held for her. The opposite of love is not hate, Soleil, but indifference. And God knows you are anything but indifferent to her."

His brow furrows. "I trust little about Elouise Orlav, but I know this: she is devoted to her child. Not in the same way you and I are to our own... She clearly never knew enough love or nurturing to be able to provide it herself. But her resilience has proven a useful tool in motherhood. There is nothing more painful than sacrificing a child for their own safety, so I wonder if perhaps this all comes down to her original purpose for leaving him with us. What she's been trying to keep him from has found him. And he was no longer safe with this family."

Soleil Whitaker. There are so many reasons that her name leaves a foul taste in Jameson's mouth. He should have trusted his gut when it told him not to trust her, especially when it came to the interest she eagerly had given to his wife. That didn't matter anymore. The woman had friends in interesting places. A family. One that was very delicate. Susceptible to pain. There had been a fact that lingered on the mind of Jameson Orlav since just after his transition. Elouise had voluntarily surrendered the possession of their son when it seemed that she had been backed into a corner. No interest in raising a boy on her own, much less one that would grow into the unmistakable qualities of his father. It didn't bother him then, and it hardly bothered him now.

Except for the fact that once again, Soleil Whitaker had been in possession of something that belonged to him, and the chorus of his consciousness was like a broken record. Mine. Mine. Mine.

Jameson doesn't make his presence known... Yet. But one thing that is for certain is that he's there. Logan is, and will always be an Orlav. Jameson's kin. Whatever tiny slither of hope that the Whitaker's had held while trying to sate their appetite for a normal family... Trying to hide from him would always have proved to be futile.

Soleil
My punishment is having to live without him. I will live to see him die. His children perish, and so on.
I'll watch him live his life, grow old, struggle through illness, his own trials. And I will be helpless to interfere.
But while he is still young, and while it means so little in his mind to be held just a few moments by a woman he won't remember when he's older, I need it.
I'm asking you to show mercy.

Soleil
Don't lecture me on what's best for my child.
There's a difference between keeping a distance and choosing not to care.
Every day without him is painful.
I brought him into the world. I know what's best for him.

Jarring. That's a mild way to put it. Closer to the ice bucket challenge and maybe a slap to the face in the middle of the pour.

First and foremost, Vee's concern is for Soleil, but she holds her tongue until her friend is finished. Once she began, the flood gates were open and out it all poured. Vee can sympathize. It's the verbal equivalent of ripping the Band-Aid off.

There is silence while Vee gathers her thoughts. If not for up close and personal, steady contact with the supernatural, she'd write Soleil up as a raving lunatic and break off all contact... but things being as they are, the words are accepted as truth and processed accordingly.

"Sh-t, Soleil. I'm sorry you went through and are still going through that. Don't ever feel as if your troubles are a burden to me. You're my girl. I will always listen." The scolding is gentle and makes clear her affection for the woman.

"I can't imagine how difficult all of this has to be. Whatever you need, tell me, and I'll do whatever I can. Where Daniel is concerned, he is welcome to come, if you want him here. You're entitled to breathing room and a break as well. Mi casa es su casa. The invitation extends to all of them." Vee's voice is warm and understanding, as if a hug can be given over the phone.

After a quick goodbye, Vee hangs the phone up. Tension drains from her muscles and her heart is lighter than in has been in a few months. Genetic or not, rituals or not, the loss of her newborn niece has impacted Vee more than she let on.

Georgie, her favorite teddy bear, has been receiving extra cuddles.

When the text message from Soleil arrives a few days later, her response is immediate. She taps the speed dial for her friend's number and listens to the line ring.

Soleil will wake up that morning with Daniel long gone, no trace of him left but the crease in the sheets beside her. What time he slipped away in unclear, but he managed to do so without disrupting her slumber. A note is resting on her bedside table whenever she wakes to notice it, a note scrawled in messy handwriting.

Soleil,

I couldn’t wake you up. You looked so peaceful. Don’t worry about when I left. Just know you’ll be seeing me soon. My special pancake batter is all ready to go in case you’d like to give the boys a taste of me. There are chocolate chips for you too. I love you, baby.
-D

No... I don’t want to wake anyone up.
-scoops her up-
Just want to get you all kinds of naked.
-clearly lied in text messages-
I’ll take you out someone nice for breakfast tomorrow.
-starts creeping up stairs-
Loft?

“Don’t go just yet.” He makes to moot plea, sitting up to watch Soleil gather her things. He’s somber, sobered by the fact home is not a place he’ll be for some time. “Okay, okay. Fine.” When she comes back over, he very easily ensnares her in a needy kiss, hands wandering beyond propriety.

“Text me.” Daniel states breathlessly as they pull apart. “Give the boys a kiss for me.”

Daniel’s eyes close, the rhythm of his heart slow and steady as he allows the sensation of her kiss to linger, his hand closing over hers. He lets the moment simmer, granting her a second allowance. The silence endures, the only sounds being their rhythmic breathing, balanced with one another. Eventually the angel looks at Soleil, caramel eyes bright. “I love you too.”

He gathers Soleil up into his arms, keeping her in a tight embrace. “I was lucky to find you, and luckier to love you. Suffice to say, everything I’ve said before... I still mean it now. And I wouldn’t change a thing.”

"Hey." He scolds. "You don't get to just throw that name around however you like. We discussed that already." He delivers a brooding stare. "Okay, so I was kidding about the white male privilege stuff. But not about sharing a bed. I won't sleep at night without you." He clears his throat. "We can be quiet. I mean, I'm sure you can be. Or you can bite a pillow." He smirks, lowering himself down to lay at her side again.

"I'll be on my best behavior when Wilson's watching. But as soon as he isn't... I'm going to cop a feel."

“I don’t care.” He groans, legs kicking for emphasis. “He’s young. He won’t know what it means. I’m selfish.” He lets out a dramatic sigh, deflating. “Tell him we’re close. Like you are with his mommy. But...” He squints. “I don’t care!” Like an overgrown toddler, the angel is selfish. “This body was mine first.”

In a possessive move, Daniel flips to hover over Soleil. “Maybe Wilson needs a man in his life. Maybe our lifestyle choice was negatively affecting him. Homosexuality is a sin, so sayeth Mike Pence. We should trust him.”

"We'll discuss?" His brows knit together. "It's called a lock. Wilson can learn to sleep in his own bed." He collapses against her side, hand reaching over to interlock with hers. "We're sharing a bed. End of discussion." He flashes that same sh*t-eating grin, shifting to grapple Soleil into a loose embrace. "Say yes, baby."

He kisses her shoulder, nuzzling into the crook of her neck. "I promise, he'll never catch on. If he didn't know we got on like rabbits before, he'll be just as clueless."

"Uncle Dan." He lets out a soft sigh. "As long as they don't think I'm sleeping with their mother." He cracks a playful grin, nose nudging against her chin, lips and teeth finding their way to her jugular. "Which I plan on doing quite a bit of..." He murmurs, hands moving to pull at the hem of her shirt, bunching it and moving to pull it off over her head. "We're sharing a bed in L.A., though."

"I'm very, very selfish." The angel continues to trail kisses, more distracted now than before. "I'll wait until after the boys go to sleep. And then we can bang." He blinks. "Is that still cute? Do we still get to say that?"

“You want me to go with you?” The question comes as a rush of air leaves Daniel’s lungs. “Yes. Of course.” He nods enthusiastically, and just as quickly swoops in to consume her in a kiss. And in the same motion, lifts her from the counter, the destination obvious. “I just want to be near you. That’s all that matters.”

When they both fall onto the bed, the angel emits a carefree laugh. “What about the boys? Who do they think I am?”

After breakfast, Daniel stands at the sink, scrubbing the dishes and utensils clean while Soleil is beside him, towel ready to dry. It’s a ritual so common it has become second nature, and it’s only now that the angel realizes all the tiny details of the life he has so sorely been missing. When the last dish is dried, Daniel watches as Soleil opens the cabinet and reaches up to stow it away. Seeing that she can’t quite make it, he steps up behind her. One hand on her waist, the other reaches above and stows the plate properly. With a smile, he waits for Soleil to turn back around to press his lips to hers in a lingering kiss.

Still wrapped up in one another, it’s without much thought that he lifts her up onto the granite countertop, so used to the movement their lips never break from one another. “I’ve missed this.” The angel’s hands move from her thighs to caress her face instead, caramel eyes searching hers. “It’s not the same, but... It’s something. And I wouldn’t trade it.”

"Thank God!" Daniel exclaimed not too comically, very easily lifting Soleil off of her feet. There's no doubt the very physical aspect of their relationship had suffered, and an unspoken frustration existed. But the love Soleil exhibits in this moment affirm for the angel everything he questioned until that moment, including Los Angeles. "I wish you weren't leaving. But I understand why you want to."

His voice is a murmur as he makes his way down the hall towards the bedroom, not showing any sign of strain in lifting Soleil all the while. "Space from all of this... from her... I know you need it. You deserve it. And it's good to have a friend." And still in the middle of talking more, her finger settles on his lips, effectively silencing him.

And it means more than there are words to describe, knowing with complete certainty, their love defies all bounds. And afterwards, holding Soleil in his arms, the angel presses a kiss against her tousled hair. They both look at each other with the same expression only they can interpret from one another. The language, of course, their love.

"Stay with me tonight?" He poses the question in the hush of a whisper, lips hovering so close to hers even the slight movement causes them to brush. His grip remains steady, so unused to having to seek permission - but knowing in this scenario it's absolutely necessary.

And then with some sort of sudden realization his grip loosens, and he takes a step away. "I'm sorry, I got carried away. I know you don't want to, um..." He waves a dismissive hand. "I didn't mean... I don't expect... It's okay if you don't..."

"It can't be like this forever, right?" His voice cracks, but as her arms close around him, he presses his face into her neck. Her smell is intoxicating, it always has been. Being able to hold her close lifts a weight off of his chest. With the boys present, there's a necessity to being reserved, to not alarming Wilson of anything being at all wrong with his family life. But it's torture for the angel, as much as he knows it's torture for Soleil.

"I'm sorry, baby. I didn't mean anything I said earlier. I can't explain any of these emotions... I was just so irrationally angry. I would never intentionally try to hurt you." He pulls back, hands moving to cup her face. He hesitates for a moment before pulling her into a needy kiss, knowing then how easy it would be to get carried away.

Daniel is sitting on the worn leather sofa in his living room - TV off, the only sound his breath. When the doorbell rings, it takes him a few moments to react, eventually padding over in socks to open the front door. The angel half-expected Soleil to leave without coming to see him, and he'll admit, even questioning it leaves him still slightly abrasive to her presence. "Hey." He offers a half-smile, stepping back to open up the doorway for her to enter.

He shuts and locks the front door behind her, shuffling his way down the hall, hand lifting to scratch the back of his head. "There's not much to eat here. Some pizza from last night, if you want." He looks down at his feet, unable to meet her gaze. "Or some beer in the fridge, if you want." And then he breaks, looking up at Soleil with bloodshot eyes.

"Please don't leave, baby." His voice now sounds hoarse, before being too low to be anything more than a raspy whisper. He'd been crying, evident now. "I..." He strikes a clenched fist against the counter. "I can't take care of you. Not just in L.A. ... I can't give you what you want like this, can I?"

Soleil
Have you considered once, ONCE, what this feels like for me?
I have no control, I'm in a body that doesn't feel like my own, a body you don't want, I can't be with my wife, or my children. And you're leaving me, Soleil. That's what this feels like.

Soleil
I love you, and I do trust you. But do you have any idea what it feels like to know you'd rather be in Los Angeles, with someone I don't know, and that was your first logical choice for a safe haven?
I thought I was your safe haven.

Soleil
If you leave me, I have no idea what I'm going to do.
I need you. I need us. I love you, baby.

There's an untraceable rage in Daniel's chest as he stalks away from the coffee shop. Infuriated and blind because of it, the angel had said some things he truly didn't mean. And then his phone vibrates.

Don’t lecture me on family, Soleil.
-lowers voice-
I’m not the one who walked out on our marriage and then kneecapped us with a drug addiction.
-nostrils flaring-
Don’t bother coming over, okay? Live in your little hell with Rhiannon for all I care.
-storms off-

But you wouldn’t ask me, first?
-throws up hands-
Do you think I want them that far away from me?
-scoffs-
I’m not going to beg you to want to be near me. If this isn’t what you want, then just say so.

It's true what they say about hearing a smile. Vee can't see the it, but she's fairly certain it's there by the tone of Soleil's voice, and an image of the woman conjures in her mind to match.

"Perfect. I'll raid the munchie caches. Might even go grocery shopping and cook for you. I warn you, my expertise is limited but it's the least I can do." Their visit has already started to lift her spirits.

"Don't worry about driving, either. I'll pick you all up." She hesitates and then speaks in a softer tone, "Thank you, Soleil."

A heavy weight Vee hadn't noticed lifts from her shoulders. she is never adverse being alone. In fact, she is quite accustomed to it. The palpable relief Soleil's planned visit gives tells her how off she is, and how important the other woman is in her world.

"Only yourself and the boys. Clothes, too. Nudity doesn't bother me but the neighbors might object. Oh, maybe a bathing suit for and trunks for them? We can have a beach day and do some real relaxing."

I’ll kick her ass.
-clears throat-
-watches boys silently-
You know, baby...
-lowers gaze-
Maybe you and the boys should get away for a little while.
-grips her hand, kisses her knuckles-
After tonight.

The sound of her friend's voice acts as a balm on the wound left by the loss of Madison. Soleil has become that one friend she can tell anything to and know there will be no judgment along with open arms. Truly, the woman is closer to her than Vee's own sister.

Soleil's aversion to sharing her news piques Vee's interest. It's easy to mistake her casual manner for obliviousness, but there is a keen mind lurking. But now is not the time or place.

"Thanks, Blondie. I would love to see you and the boys. Tucker is still on hiatus, and I doubt he wants to sit through chick flicks anyway," she laughs softly. "Please come?"

You didn’t sign up for this.
-closes eyes-
I just... I can’t sleep at night without you by my side.
-soft sigh-
I miss every single detail of your body. I can’t stand it.
-glances at distracted children, hazards a kiss-
I love you, Soleil.

When Soleil answered, there would be a pause and a heavy sigh. "Soleil, there is no easy way to say it, so here it is; Madison passed away. We've been seeing to her burial. Our lot is very traditional so it takes time. Before you ask, these deaths are not uncommon. It's genetic. That's why there aren't many of us."

Another sigh, and Vee rubbed her face despite the face Soleil couldn't see it. "Enough doom and gloom. Tell me your news. It better be good. I need good."

Rhiannon looked over at Callum, sitting as blankly on the couch beside her as she had been before Soleil had contacted her. She knew Soleil was unsettled. The last time Rhiannon had experienced a trauma, she'd gone running to Callum. And the result... She loved her wife, always gracious. Especially now.

Soleil
Can we get pizza? And mozzarella sticks.
I just want to come home and be with you.

Rhiannon was cracked at the seams, all of the emotions she kept reserved regarding Margot Faye threatened to pour out. Her entire relationship with her sister had been complicated and intense. That was what happened when you're orphaned at a young age. But then the complications too, how her marriage had devolved and Margot's hand in that. But even the angel had grown to love and cherish Margot. To see her capacity for love, her need for encouragement and support. And the angel was broken.

Soleil
I'm with Callum. I'll be home later.
I need you, too. I love you.

Text to: Blondie
You have a devious mind. Have fun. 😉
I put itching powder in his undies drawer and threw his favorite pair of shoes over a telephone line. I think a dog horn under his office chair is next...

It had been a busy day for the Whitaker's, to say the least. And with sometimes opposite schedules, it isn't always a given that the two will lay eyes on one another until long after the sun has set. Leaving little reminders for Soleil that she is loved and appreciated has become a staple for Rhiannon. Knowing that she's up and out of the house long before Soleil has stirred gives the angel enough time to plot the best gifts.

That morning, Soleil would awaken to a tray of her favorite blueberry muffins, accompanied by a note. The contents of which, somewhat to graphic to share, still manage to effectively describe Rhiannon's enormous gratitude for all that her wife provides. And, because Rhiannon is notoriously forgetful, she always must follow up with a text.

Soleil
I think I forgot to write I love you on that note.
... I got a little side-tracked with all of the details.

"Mhm." She nods in the affirmative, already attempting to scoop Soleil up. "Too many layers." She huffs, as if the rather emotionally heavy conversation they'd just had was never traversed in the first place. "This is why I love you best."

And then she's grinning, humor fully returned. "I'm only in it for the butt. And the boob cushions. That's all. Nothing about your personality is appealing." With Soleil now unceremoniously thrown over the angel's shoulder, she begins her march for the stairs.

"And don't get me started on your pancakes. Always overcooked. Oh! And you never move the laundry from the washer to the dryer. You're a menace!" Because, even as they disappeared down the hallway to their room, the angel always endeavored to make her wife laugh, and so their mixed laughter filled the air, the perfect ending to a tender moment.

"I wasn't expecting to see him today." She admits, the smile elicited by the kiss now fading. "I'd never expect you to accept what happened in my past. I know you only ever want to guard my heart. I imagine it can't be easy, knowing how the relationship ended. How bizarre it seems, that I'm so comfortable with Callum being with Margot." She snuggles back into Soleil's arms closely.

"You never asked for an explanation. I never offered one, really. Maybe you never wanted to know." Rhiannon shrugs. "If you want to know the truth, baby, I wasn't the saint." Again, Rhiannon readjusts herself, unable yet to have found the perfect cuddling position. And then, Rhiannon's mood entirely changes, as if the conversation had been addressed and concluded without clear indication.

"Just wanted to make sure." The angel would then press her lips straight against Soleil's, lingering for just a few seconds longer. "I know you don't like him." Him being Callum, of course. "But I loved him for a very long time." She buries her face again momentarily. "That is to say... You were far from legal when I met Callum." And then follows a smile. "But he was kind."

"Boring. But so lovely. And I needed that." Rhiannon knows she doesn't owe Soleil an explanation. But she's going to give it, regardless. "He was awkward, and sweet, and he took care of me in one of the worst times of my life." She clears her throat. "But we outgrew each other. We weren't happy, at the end of it. Obviously." She pulls back again, looking back into Soleil's eyes. "He could never be to me what you are, Soleil. Even on the best day, he was never you."

"I'm fine." She replies in a murmur, then placing a kiss against Soleil's neck. "I'm just glad he's safe." She tightens her grip around her wife momentarily, glad for the almost instantaneous comfort she has always been able to offer. "Love you." She whispers, now fully wrapped around Soleil like a koala. "A lot."

"More than anyone." She lifts her head back to meet Soleil's gaze, her own caramel stare firey. "I'm serious."

"Babe." Rhiannon pads into the living room, plopping with a sigh into the mass of cushions and blankets, with Soleil somewhere beneath. Her hands immediately start fishing through until she makes contact, then of course burrowing her way towards her wife. She's moody, of that Soleil can be certain. "Boys are asleep."

The angel buries her face against Soleil's neck, taking in a deep breath through her nose. "He looked good." She finally admits. "And happy."

Despite his best efforts, Callum McKay could not, for the life of him, win Soleil over. He's always been aware of the younger woman's disapproval - she hasn't exactly been subtle, afterall. But, in this moment, there's no snarky response. No quick comeback. All he can offer is an apology.

You can't just bring hot women into the house, Soleil!
*huffs*
*grumbles*
You eat whatever I make. Or you put it in your pockets when you think I don't notice. Beer and cheerios for dinner every night this week!

Dempsey rubbed her fingers over the smooth texture of the paper before slipping it into her back pocket just underneath the screen of her phone. She had been surrounded by so many new people in such a short amount of time it was becoming difficult to remember it all. There was the texter who had a name but no face, now the Whitakers. Dempsey was terrible with people, but the Whitakers seemed like people she wouldn’t mind seeing again. Especially with their love for breakfast it seemed.

“Thanks. It’s a date then.” She tapped her fingers on her bottom where the crumbled paper now rested, before turning from her new found acquaintance and walking away.

Dempsey noticed the lingering handshake but tried not to over analyze the meaning behind it. Was it meant as imtimidation? Or something else entirely? Whatever it was would have to be noted in her journal at a later time. Dempsey needed to keep up the facade of normalcy if she wanted to maintain her guise.

"I like dinner." Anthony warm smile crossed her lips as she reached out for the paper that had been scribbled on.

Dempsey turned to look at the person that approached her about her poor attempt at theft. Her typical reaction would be to simply retreat, but Soleil was supposed to be an ally, plus she had already encountered the woman's wife.

"I'm sure she wont mind. She's already claimed me as her own possession. She seems to have good taste though." Dempsey's lips perked into a peckish smile as she reached out a hand to the victim she had failed to steal from. "I'm Dempsey, I'm new to Sonder. But I think I'll like the stay if everyone is as lovely as you and your wife."

*all kinds of needy*
Oh, honey. You don't know wild.
*steals kiss*
I missed you more. You have no idea how lonely that bed was without you in it.
*unabashedly handsy*
Did you have a good time with Lloyd?

Text to: Blondie
You raise a good point, if you consider a brief conversation as knowing. A little bit goes a long way!
Whenever you get done with this hunting trip, you'll have to tell me all about it.

"Honesty is painful, baby, but it's deceit that hurts. Pain fades, but hurting... That's a constant thing." The angel murmurs, nose nuzzling into her wife's brunette tresses. "Honesty is an attractive quality on you, Soleil Whitaker." Rhiannon's grip on her waist tightens momentarily as she stands up, successfully scooping Soleil up into her arms despite all pending protest.

"There's no harm in practicing though, right?" She smirks, moving to plant Soleil on the edge of her desk. "Spending time with you is always my priority, Soleil Whitaker." She clears her throat, leaning in to steal a kiss. "I love you, wife of mine. Always have, and I always will. We were made for each other." She affirms, afterwards not finding much opportunity to speak between an onslaught of fervent kisses.

"... Good. We're on the same page, babe." Rhiannon almost wants to laugh. But, for the sake of how miserable Soleil looks, the angel refrains. "C'mere." She beckons the nervous wreck over, a sympathetic little pout on her lips. "Soleil, I was only teasing." Arms now wrapped around the younger Whitaker's frame, Rhiannon places a reassuring kiss to her forehead.

"And I wish you didn't look like you'd rather die than tell me no. But I'm glad you spoke up for yourself." She's smiling again, this time stealing an earnest kiss. "I'm sorry about Q-Tip, I know you said no to more animals. But if you'd seen the look on Wilson's face..."

As of late, Rhiannon has made more of an effort to be present in the home, sharing more of the burden Soleil has felt with the equivalent of a zoo under their roof. Her days begin long before the sun rises, walking dogs, feeding cats, and getting breakfast ready for the rest of her family. The angel finds contentment in domesticity. In the middle of typing a report, the only voice that can make her heart skip a beat carries across the room. "Hey, baby."

She spins in her chair, lips splitting in a toothy grin. "I was just about to take a break, actually. What's up?"

Text to: Blondie
There are places colder than NY, too. Like Siberia.
I'll visit soon but I will commandeer a nice warm blanket. Cancun is great. Beaches. Drinks. Sunny. Even solo it's nice.
Yep, only for the holidays. A break is good but I'd miss my favorite blonde too much to disappear forever.

SOLEIL
HIS NAME IS Q-TIP AND WILSON ASKED AND I SAID OKAY ALSO WE BOUGHT A BOUNCY CASTLE AND I JUST WANTED TO MAKE HIM HAPPY AND HE'S SO CUTE SO I GOT HIM EVERYTHING HE ASKED FOR I'M SORRY PLEASE DON'T DIVORCE ME I LOVE YOU SO MUCH BABE.

Maybe I was reluctant to switch paper towel brands, but I'm starting to see the merits. I'm coming around to it.
*100% innocent*
*snuggles up*
But you really can do whatever you want to me tonight.
... I mean.
*blinks*

"It'll get cold.." She murmurs, starting to pull against the restraint of her wife's arms. "But I guess..." Rhiannon pulls back, lifting her favorite Bruins t-shirt off and tossing it aside. ".. We can heat it up." There's a wicked little grin on the angel's lips as she steals another kiss, this one far more rushed and needy than the previous.

"Better to work up an appetite, right?" Rhiannon is capable, sometimes, of playing along. That won't stop her from picturing dumplings the entire time, though.

She's smug, but benignly so. There is no mistaking that Rhiannon seems to enjoy her wife's jealousy. However unnecessary, it makes her feel wanted. "He was wearing two scarves, babe. Two!" The angel hoists two fingers in the air for emphasis, falling back into muted silence as Soleil's grip tightens.

"What after, after... Oh." She blushes, tilting her head back to peer at her wife with a wry grin. "As I recall, I was hardly in the front door before you were pulling that dress off of me. So impatient." She teasingly chastises, hands beginning to wander towards the hem of her wife's shirt.

"We can take our time right now, though." It's a nonchalant whisper, followed by a kiss being bestowed against Soleil's cheek. And just as Rhiannon begins to shift her position, she lets out a despondent sigh. "Dumplings."

"I'm still a little hungover..." She grumbles, momentarily hiding her face in the crook of Soleil's neck. "You were amazing though, Soleil. My wife is talented." She offers a sincere smile, then stealing a kiss from her lips.

"And the tequila was good." She snickers, bumping her forehead to Soleil's affectionately. "I certainly had a good time." The angel pulls back a little, reaching over to poke Soleil's cheek. "But then you tried to fight the gay man I was dancing with."

The angel glides across the floor in her extra fuzzy socks, straight from the kitchen into the living room. It's an acrobatic sort of flip that launches her over the back of the sofa and on top of Soleil. With her wife surprise-tackled, Rhiannon steals her blanket and snuggles up.

"... Feed me." She squeaks, looking up at the younger Whitaker with big doe eyes. "The boys are down for their nap. I need sustenance."

"No. I thought I'd go see 'Coco' with Wilson again." She cracks a toothy grin, leaning in then to press a kiss against Soleil's neck. "Of course I'm going to be there. You're my woman." Rhiannon sets aside her own glass of wine, totally wrapping herself around Soleil in a koala-like grip. "I'll be the hot one in the front row dancing."

There's a few more lazy, idly placed kisses as Rhiannon speaks, caramel eyes struggling to remain open as she snuggles closer. "I'm so proud of you, y'know."

If Soleil is exhausted, Rhiannon has reached a new level. She's essentially a very attractive corpse, relegated to zombie status post-Christmas. However, the same smile and cheery voice carry back a positive response. "Yeah, babe! Be right there." It doesn't matter now that Rhiannon had fallen asleep standing at the kitchen counter - she's just as quickly pouring two glasses of red and padding into the living room with her hands full.

"Here." She yawns, handing off one of the glasses before she essentially falls against Soleil's side, nestling comfortably. "I think we'll be using that couple's massage soon, baby. I'm beat."

It's quite early on Christmas morning, not that the angel has yet slept. So much preparation has been necessitated by her, but she's allowed her wife to sleep in, knowing Wilson would have her up as soon as the sun is in the sky. Every detail is in perfect display, and soon enough Rhiannon finds herself starting a fresh pot of coffee for Soleil.

With adept stealth, Rhiannon sneaks back into their bedroom, tucking the coffee and a decorated note on her bedside table. It would read:

Twas the morning of Christmas,
Thank god we sound-proofed the house,
Soleil got laid last night,
Because she'd worn a nice blouse.

Wilson was nestled all snug in his bed,
While visions of a new puppy danced in his head.

But you wouldn't let me buy him a goddamn puppy.
Come downstairs when you're ready, baby. I love you.
~Rhiannon

"I want you to f-cking tell me before you run off to meet her on a whim." Rhiannon hushes Logan as he starts to squirm, her hand gently coaxing him with pats on the back. There is no lack of affection for the infant, despite her resentment at his presence.

Finally, she shifts over, pressing a chaste kiss to Soleil's cheek. "I know you wouldn't leave a baby to the elements, Soleil. I wouldn't expect you to." But just as soon as the relationship seems repaired, Rhiannon is past Soleil and down the hall towards their room - the door shutting behind her.

This moment is the breaking-off point, where the humanity within her body takes control over the divine. The angel would not be so callous, not so selfish or so angry - but the very human part of her raged war with her thoughts and emotions. Rhiannon's entire demeanor shifts, that innocent smile falling back into a flat line. She still holds Logan, cradling the delicate infant against her chest, as her anger could never be projected onto something so innocent.

No. Her frustration was channeled (at present) only at her wife, for a myriad of different reasons. Some, perhaps justified, others, decidedly less so.

"You met with Elouise? Without telling me?" Her voice stays in that quiet whisper of a tone, but the hurt is undeniable. The wonderment has absolutely faded. "And then you bring home her child into our house?"

The resentment for Elouise Orlav runs deeply and in so many different veins and directions. Rhiannon had dwelled for days - weeks, even. In the end, she considered the weight of it all, and chose to love Soleil more. It only occurs to her now that her mind hasn't forgotten quite so easily as her heart has forgiven. "I..." Rhiannon shakes her head, at a loss.

There was no question that Rhiannon resented Elouise for having had Soleil through the duration of her pregnancy. That the two women were so undeniably close, and Soleil been by the other woman's side throughout every struggle and obstacle. Rhiannon couldn't ignore, presently, that the two women had loved one another. It didn't matter that at present, Soleil couldn't be farther from affection where it concerned Elouise Orlav. It didn't matter that Rhiannon wouldn't have left the child to die, either.

"How long is this supposed to last, mm? Is this an indefinite arrangement? I just want to know how long I'll have to endure your lover's child."

Rhiannon isn't paying too much attention to her work, distracted by the text conversation between her and her wife. Not that she'd replied within a reasonable window - but it was nighttime now, and Wilson was fast asleep. At least they'd be able to have whatever conversation was required without interruption.

Hearing familiar footsteps hesitating outside of her door, Rhiannon hops out of her chair and paces over. "Babe, if you crashed the motorcycle, or something, you know I'll still love you, right?" She's hoping, of course, it's something as trivial as that. But, who knows when it comes to her wife?

Opening the door, Rhiannon just pauses. Blinks a few times. Caramel eyes can't quite believe the sight before her. "Did you... Is that a..." She's incoherent, reaching out almost automatically to snatch the baby away. Because, well, it's a baby. Her voice is now a whisper, frantic, and maybe overly excited.

"Did you order me an Internet baby to make up for our fight?!" There's no mistaking the smile that splits on Rhiannon's face, which quickly transfers a kiss onto Soleil's lips. "Oh my god, he's so chunky. Wait. Soleil Whitaker."

She pauses, catching herself. She hasn't even allowed Soleil a word in. "... Where did you get a baby?"

"I wish I could have been what you needed from me, Soleil. But not every love is quite so straightforward as the one between you and that wife of yours." Elouise sneered at the thought of Rhiannon, finding Soleil's 'better-half' nothing more than an annoyance and hindrance.

"It's your choice, Soleil. Take Logan, or let him die." Cerulean eyes cast backwards at her son, who squirmed - growing more agitated as the two women spoke. "I know you'll do the right thing."

El didn't hesitate a moment longer. Her feet were already backing away, breaking from the scene with Soleil, her pace an easy sprint into the night. She knew, despite all protests, despite her hatred of his mother, Soleil wouldn't abandon Logan.

Elouise scoffed. "You think any of those monsters could have taken care of my son?" She sucks in a breath - an involuntary action, as her lungs no longer require the action. "You don't know what Elis Griffyn did to me."

She can feel every sensation of that locked cellar still. Sleepless nights give her plenty of time to dwell in the nightmares of what Elis Griffyn inflicted upon her. And despite all she's done to Soleil, the nerve of the young woman provokes an anger deep inside of her.

"When you had no one, Soleil, I took you in. Regardless of how you feel for me now, we loved each other. We took care of each other. You may be 'done' with me, despise me for having seduced you into a betrayal, but you cannot deny the love we once shared." Soleil would pretend to look back on it all with revisionist's history, to blame Elouise for everything.

"You'll take Logan, because you know it's the humane thing to do. You'll take him, because..." There's a sharp prick in her gums as her fangs protrude, the quick flash of a sadistic smile revealing her nature, once and for all, to Soleil. "Because if you leave him with me, I'll only end up killing him."

She doesn't listen as Soleil offers her condolences. She's off-center, wanting more than anything to ravage the other woman until she was nothing but razed flesh. But she didn't. Not even when Soleil refused her demands.

"You can." Elouise insisted, an unmistakable grit to her tone. "You and Rhiannon have a home, you have means. You can care for Logan." The blonde reached out, grasping Soleil's wrist in a death-grip - sure to leave a bruise. It's the first sign that everything isn't completely put-together for Elouise.

Elouise’s mood shifted, incensed by the scent of Soleil, ears ringing with the healthy and solid thrum of the younger woman’s heart. It’s all of the blonde’s strength not to simply take upon her and drink her dry, but she’d fed just before his meeting to reduce the frenzy. She was as in control as she possibly could be, and needed the interaction to be as brief as possible.

The smell of Soleil is intoxicating.

There’s no hint to Elouise’s new-found vampirism. Her heart still beats as well. It just doesn’t serve a purpose any longer.

“Hey, gorgeous.” El breathed in Soleil’s scent, finding herself leaning in her direction like Garfield to lasagna. “I need you to do something for me.” While she knew Soleil would do nothing to help Elouise any longer, she knew she wouldn’t walk away. Not from an infant in desperate need.

“Jason died.” The two words rip a pit into the deepest vestiges of Elouise’s gut, unable to process the loss of her best friend, and at the time of his death, her husband. Not that the marriage was remotely romantic. Jason was supposed to have protected Logan. Instead, he’d succumbed to the red death, leaving Elouise to try and protect her own child, yet her desires and control were too unruly for her to take the task of motherhood upon herself.

No. She needed Soleil. “He was supposed to keep Logan safe. But…sh*t happens.” She motioned then towards the sleeping infant. “I need you to take him, Soleil. If you don’t…” She’d kill her only other child at her own hands – again. The image of Prudence, hung like the crucifixion before her haunted her sleepless nights.

Elouise waited. Patient for the arrival of the woman she needed desperately to play her part. There was no denying, through observation, the life of quiet desperation Soleil Whitaker was living. That her days were spent only in the company of a toddler, and once he was put to bed, it was pure solitude. If Elouise was feeling truly horrible, she would prey upon the loneliness her friend felt. It would be chaotic for Soleil's life, but Elouise didn't care.

No. Her focus was precise. She needed Soleil to cooperate.

With Jason dead (really dead), the matter of Logan's care came into question. There was no joy in learning her son was not, in fact, as dead as Elis had promised. Elouise, devoted to his care even in undeath, knew there were few people she could trust with his care. The conversation had been had with numerous persons, but trust, in the end, fell to the one woman, who despite all protests and insistence, would never truly be free of Elouise's spell.

So she waited at the meeting location, car-seat filled with sleeping infant situated on the park bench beside her. It was frosty, but Logan seemed content enough to remain asleep, and Elouise was certain Soleil would be arriving imminently.

*clings to*
You're not difficult. You're justified.
*all pathetic*
No more late nights, I promise.
*lowers voice*
I hate the idea of you alone in bed. Such a perfect waste of opportunity.
*brief laugh*
I'll work on it, okay?

*tightest of embraces*
*so, so needy*
You and I, always.
*nuzzles her neck*
I've felt so impossibly far away from you. I've been distant, too. But I'll work harder you make you happier, Soleil. It's my job.
*peers at*
I love you, gorgeous girl. Nothing can or will ever change that.

*wide eyes*
Are you saying you don't need me anymore?
*is a puddle*
I'll quit the job. We'll sell the brownstone, and move to some ridiculous suburb near Boston, and I'll wear Sox gear, and find a job with decent hours, and we'll be us again.
*shaky breath*
I only really need the two of you. That's it.

Yeah, Soleil. Maybe you are.
*shakes head*
Don't turn this around on me. When I'm home, you freeze me out. You punish me for working to provide for you and our son. Like right now.
*heavy sigh*
I come home, and suddenly I'm public enemy number one. I don't give Wilson enough attention, I don't do enough for you. I live for you.
*glances towards living room*
All I want to do is make this work, Soleil. And something's not right.
*lowers gaze*
You and I? We're a perfect equation. This family? Perfect. I'm sorry I've been neglectful. More than neglectful, in your eyes. But I'm trying, I've been trying, and you just won't let it happen.
*clenches fists*
You don't want me anymore? Is that it? So independent now that loving me just isn't important? Just tell me what you want me to do, baby. Because we can't keep this up.

*small smile*
I don't mind you being selfish. I love everything about you, even the difficult stuff.
*leans in*
I just want to make you happy, baby. You're self-perceived ability to provide has literally nothing to do with the crazy amount of love I have for you in my heart.
*nudges with nose*
Kiss? Please?

Emotionally distant, ass.
*wraps arms around her*
Something is wrong. Normally...
*tsk's*
Since when do you want to plan a vacation without consulting me? Asking me? Of course I want to spend time with you and Wilson, you're my number one priority.
*squeezes*
I just want you to tell me why you're upset with me.

Sorry for the seemingly random email, I managed to get your address from a friend. I hope you don't mind. And I appreciate that, given the issues in the past with her, you don't mind me contacting you in regards to Elouise.

We've had a falling out after a very upsetting incident involving some rather unsavoury beings (I'm sure you can guess who, or rather, what I am referring to) and she seems to be suffering some rather delusional thoughts about me as a result.

I worry for her safety and the safety of those she may come into contact moving forward, including yourself and your beautiful family.

If she gets in contact, please approach with caution while I try to fix the issue and get her help. And feel free to call me at any time. I believe you have my number.

An irrational sense of anger fills her chest cavity. She wants to lash out - cross the street and slap sense into Soleil. The young woman can be so obstinate - she can't never take a simple command without asking for more information. She can't just listen. Soleil will never understand all that Elouise has done for her own good.

Soleil will never understand just how deep Elouise's love runs - that she has always put herself in jeopardy to protect those she considers dear. But now, her state has changed. Mind and body altered. It's more of an obsessive fixation than love. But it's all-consuming.

"Meet me in person, then. I'll text you the address." Elouise lets the statement settle before disconnecting the call, numb fingertips tapping at the buttons until the deliberate message is tailored. Once sent, she crushes the cell with just the force of her grip.

Elouise closes her eyes, refraining from snapping. She needs to be tactful. She needs to keep her cool. He's been in contact with Soleil. Of course he has. She nods slowly. "Don't go near him. Don't let your son near him. Do you understand?" There's layered desperation in her tone, impossible to hide.

"You don't know what he's capable of, Soleil. You don't know him like I do." Her breath is more anxious, coming out in short, forced huffs. "Promise you'll stay away. He's...Elis is..." She can't give reason. It's all too raw, Elouise's impression of the world post-Elis Griffyn.

"You won't ever have to worry about him." She retorts. And it's truth. Elouise will watch over Soleil for the rest of her natural life. "It's not something we should talk about over the phone." Or in person. Elouise isn't sure she can keep her composure in front of Soleil. The powers that have always drawn Elouise to Soleil intoxicate her only more. But it's a different desire, now.

Blood.

No, Elouise doesn't trust herself. "Sometime soon. Maybe." She falls quiet, letting Soleil's words fall deaf for a minute or two. Only the sound of her breathing on the other end of the line indicates Elouise is still present.

"I've been watching, Soleil." She states the sentiment with ease. "I want to tell you everything. I hate to keep secrets from you." But, as always, Elouise will keep her peace if it protects Soleil. "Do you know Elis Griffyn?"

"He told me he killed everyone I loved." She replies, choking on the words. "Everyone. Everyone but you. They're all gone." She whispers, her forehead knocking against the window pane with force. "He told me he killed you. But I needed to know for myself." She observes the nervousness now exhibited in Soleil's body language. The trepidation in her tone pains Elouise. But she pushes through.

She can't bring herself to verbalize the trauma, so she simply moves on. "I love you. You know that, don't you?" She lets out a soft sigh. The three words feel different. She's remorseless and completely unapologetic.

"When'd you get the kid?" There's a sharp pain in her chest, recollecting the thought of Prudence and Logan. She can't only stand to for a few seconds. "I'm sure you're a great mom." It's not as if Elouise hasn't been secretly privy to how Soleil interacts and treats her son. But, Soleil doesn't need to know that.

She breathes back in response, a chuckle catching in her throat. Her voice is different, devoid of that canorous charm it once carried. Cerulean eyes shut, unnecessary breathing ragged at she soaks in the sound of Soleil. "Is that so? I can certainly make arrangements..." The blonde knows better than to joke. She's sure that Soleil will simply hang up the other end of the phone.

"Would you believe me if I thought you were dead?" It's an earnest question, and Elouise leans against the window frame, gauging her former friend's body language. "I've been thinking of you." It's an understatement. Soleil has been her only thought. Her last motivation to escape. If only to find her. To protect her from all harm.

From Elis.

"Don't hang up. Not yet." It's a dire plea, woven into her crack in her voice.

Elouise has been watching. For hours, for days - it all seems to meld together into indiscernible threads of time. Time. Funny, how the blonde always felt there was never enough of it. She used her charms to gain entrance into the house across the street, and later enjoyed the Whitaker's neighbors for dinner. It was a bountiful feast. Enough to keep the young vampire at ease while she observed.

She knows she can't control herself, so she keeps her distance. But it's this small shred of a lie on Elis's account. Soleil is alive. And Elouise has committed herself to stand vigil. To protect the last person she has left to love.

Is it love? Elouise can't be sure. In her chest is only a hollowness. The woman Soleil had once known and loved is gone. Only this monster, whose has made her mark upon her. From her perch in the third story window, she watches Soleil roam the living room across and below - collecting odds and ends and toys. Tidying up. So domestic. She had put a small child to bed a half-an-hour ago or so. Her wife wasn't home. Not yet. It's hard to track Rhiannon, her comings and goings are sporadic.

But this is Elouise's window, no pun intended. So she picks up the burner phone balanced on the window sill and dials. All it takes is for Soleil to connect on the other end of the line.

*snorts*
You absolutely are, and you can't deny it.
*kisses her hair*
This project at work is almost finished. Then I'll be able to scale back more, spend more time with you and our little guy.. Sound good?

She snorted, eyes painfully rolling as Soleil makes her intentions clear and known. "Well, it is National Coming Out Day. Glad you've finally come out of the closet." She snickered, amused by the way Soleil spoke and perused her body without hindrance.

"I missed you too," she murmured, hips pressing Soleil's back against the counter. "I don't care if Mark doesn't have intentions. Look at you. I don't know how anyone would be able to avert their eyes." There's no sense in hiding the very clear intentions written plainly across Rhiannon's face. "I certainly can't keep my hands to myself."

It's a simple, fluid motion that had Soleil up on the counter-top, Rhiannon settling with ease between her legs. "Technically, tonight was supposed to be our date-night. But we can still end it in style, if you think you're up for it."

Rhiannon, unlike her wife, stuck to red wine. She's in that frisky, post-four glasses mood, and it's plain to see. "You took too long." She replied, nuzzling into her neck to trail kisses. "I was working, and you know my policy." Deciding her current modus operandi was too much for Soleil to handle, especially intoxicated, Rhiannon draws her head back. Caramel eyes search hers with a content little smile.

"You taste like whiskey and cigars, Mrs. Whittaker. I can only assume you got up to no good." There's a lazy, half-drunk smirk on the angel's lips as she leaned in to steal another kiss. And then one more for good measure. It never seemed to matter, she just couldn't get enough of Soleil.

"Bottle's gone. And then I made a margarita..." She shrugged, unabashed in her post-mothering activities. "Did you drive home, baby?" She squinted, eyes falling over the bike keys and helmet on the table. "You could have called an Uber, you know." She tsk'd, now at arms length to look her bride over.

Rhiannon was sitting up in bed, Broad City mindlessly on the television across the room while, of course, she sat up and went over reports. She found herself working constantly, the weekends her only savior. That, and any stolen moments in-between with Soleil. She knew the younger woman understood her stress, and sympathized. But the angel recognized just the same that her wife needed time outside of the house and Wilson to let off some steam.

Of course Rhiannon was excited at the prospect of Soleil arriving home. It wasn't absurdly late, and she wanted attention. The blueprints could wait until morning, she decided. There were more pressing manners begging her attention. And, just as Rhiannon was turning the page, her not-so graceful wife could be heard banging around downstairs.

With an amused grin, Rhiannon pushes the documents aside, glasses still perched on her nose as she scampered out of bed and downstairs as quickly as she could. She wore a pair of Soleil's running shirts and her wife's favorite Red Sox sweatshirt, something she'd never be seen out in public with.

"Babe. You're going to wake the entire street up." She grinned, stepping up to grab Soleil by the waist and pull her into a pleased kiss. "Have a nice time with the white guy?"

*blinks at*
*heavy stare*
You're the only one thinking that. And you're wrong.
*holds her face*
Sometimes I get big projects that demand my schedule. Other times, it's slow. Do you know how happy I am to provide for you? You are not a burden.
*frowns*
Say it back to me so I know you understand.

*prods her sides*
I just didn't want you to forget.
*stares at, contemplates*
I don't want to lose you. That's all.
*kisses her jaw*
It's harder with Wilson here. I guess...
*squints at*
You get the point, right?

The angel laughs. Light-hearted and totally at-ease. "You too, gorgeous girl." Her fingers find themselves in Soleil's hair, shifting through the blonde locks as Soleil's hands wander her own body. "I'm horrible at keeping secrets, I just wanted to surprise you." Perhaps it's Rhiannon's own nagging insecurities that have driven her to behave in such a way, but she can't say she regrets it.

Nothing compares to the way Soleil Whitaker looks at her, and it wouldn't matter if she was wearing this, or her disheveled 5am PJs. Still, it's a different feeling to look like this and stand with her wife's arms around her.

Rhiannon presses Soleil back gently, grinning as her wife emits a cranky whine. But the separation is only momentary as the jacket falls to the floor, and Rhiannon is in her wife's lap. "So? Good surprise?" Her teeth graze Soleil's ear following the question question, arms draping around her shoulder to anchor herself down.

Rhiannon unlocks the front door, closing it quietly behind and re-securing it before she ventures further into the brownstone. She lets her satchel bag slide from her shoulder and to the floor of the hallway as she advances into the living room, caramel eyes on her nervous young wife. "Hey, baby." Rhiannon grins, long legs stepping over in heels.

There should be something distinctively different about how the angel appears now than how she did leaving the house that morning. Rather than the formal, business-appropriate navy blue dress she'd worn out, it was only a brown trench coat which ended mid-thigh. "I changed before I left the office..." She's blushing, because Rhiannon isn't normally the one to surprise her wife with anything like this.

But she's so admired the way Soleil's stepped up with Wilson. And the angel wants to show her appreciate. So, deft fingers undo the sash around her waist, letting the jacket fall open to reveal the classic black lingerie underneath. "Sorry I made you squirm, baby. But you've done nothing wrong."

*huffs*
You soak up all of the attention when it's the two of you together.
*little pout*
I was just trying to earn some Wilson points, okay?
*swats at her behind*
Nude if it'll help fix your mood, baby.
*winks at*

Figured I'd fuel you up first.
*toothy grin*
Wilson and I spent practically all day in Central Park. We have one curious little boy on our hands.
*turns, pulls into kiss*
What'd you get up to today? Anything fun?

Text: Blondie
Wilson? Is that your boy?
You may live to regret that open ended invitation.
Kids are a blessing but looking after your mental health is necessary too. Once you have the green light from your wife, I'll hop a flight over, and smuggle a good bottle of wine to share.

Soleil
If you didn't want it, you could have said no. You could have stopped it, and you didn't.
So don't look back in retrospect and act like I'm the villain.
You share the blame. You have the decision. Several decisions that all led you into bed with me.
I regret it because you're married, and because it was selfish. I don't regret that it was you.

Soleil
I didn't have a clear head that night.
You can accuse me of what you want. I won't argue.
But I loved you, despite how I showed it.
I didn't trap you. You chose to join The Order. You fell in love with me. You stayed.
And I did my best to keep you happy. I won't deny my motives were selfish. But love is selfish.

Soleil
You were the most important person in my life for so long.
Of course I knew how you felt. I wanted to ignore how I felt.
I'm sorry I abused you. I know you deserved more than I gave.
I loved you. I love you. I don't care if it isn't justified any more. I will always miss you. You're my best friend.
I miss the way we laughed together. I miss our late-night Netflixing and gossip.
I miss your friendship.
You're probably not going to answer this. I don't expect you to. I know I don't have a right.

No, babe. He's three years old. Relax.
*comforting pat*
He only thinks about chocolate, and Legos, and maybe SpongeBob. Alright?
*trails kisses*
Not that there's anything wrong with what you are.
Obviously I'm very into it.
*grins*

*cheekiest of grins*
I don't even remember what the sermon was about.
*nuzzles affectionately*
I couldn't get my cute, sleepy wife off my mind.
I just wanted to come right back home and crawl back into bed with you.

Rhiannon wants to be unrelenting, but she knows when she has taken it just far enough. So, she lifts Soleil's shirt up and off of her body, taking her time as she admires the absolute vision that is Soleil Whitaker. "Upstairs." She decides in a wispy tone, forehead pressing to her counterpart's.

Her breathing is much heavier now, as she stares back into Soleil's eyes, desire pooling in both of their irises. "I don't want to keep you waiting." She grins, know standing and scooping Soleil up and over her shoulder. It's the sort of woman-handling Soleil refuses to admit she likes. It doesn't matter to Rhiannon as she runs up the stairs and down the hall, giggly wife dangling off of her body.

There is always a nature of fun to their time together. An innate goofiness. It all cycles back to an intensity the two women share for each other, and showcase with such physical intimacy.

A smirk teases her expression, lips finding their way to Soleil's neck once more as she trails several more kisses, outright ignoring Soleil's search for one of her own. Rhiannon's hands run against the warm skin of her back, nails tracing faint lines of contention against it. "I'm not teasing you."

The lie is easy, and of course, another slight. Still, the angel asserts her superior position, pressing Soleil further back into the couch cushions while she explores her wife's body, leaving so much to be desired. She can sense the subtle frustration in Soleil's breathing pattern, and in the way her eyebrows knit and droop.

Much to Soleil's continued chagrin, Rhiannon likes to play games before delivering a much desired gratification. It's simply her way. "You didn't answer my question, baby." She murmurs, lips placing a kiss at the corner of Soleil's lips, dangerously close to fulfilling Soleil's earlier search, but granting no such request.

Because Rhiannon enjoys testing the waters, so as soon as her wrist is released, Rhiannon's fingers prod into the sensitive flesh of her abdomen. Meanwhile, she busies Soleil's lips with a distracting kiss. The Angel knows what she's doing, after all. And she's so good at it.

"Of course you can drive." She whispers, hands wandering beneath the thin sheath of fabric that constituted Soleil's shirt. They wiggle around until they center at her lower back, pressing Soleil into a close-knit embrace.

"What kind of kisses were you thinking?" It's a question layered in off-topic innuendo, and Rhiannon knows it. Hence, the wicked grin on her lips.

Rhiannon emits a groan, caramel eyes rolling with sarcasm. "You're ridiculous." She replies, but she's the first to admit she relishes in such romanticisms. "I had a good day, too." She adds, fingers prodding into the flesh of her sides, hoping to elicit a playful swat. Rhiannon of all people knows just how ticklish Soleil is.

"Can we take the 'Stang to Boston?" The beloved car, a gift from an even more beloved wife. "I'll stick you in some cute shades and just watch you drive." She tilts her head back, pressing a kiss to Soleil's exposed neck. "I could watch you do anything, really."

Rhiannon trots into the living room, unbridled excitement evident in her movements as she brushes the bowl of popcorn out of Soleil's grasp. Her fingers tangle within Soleil's short tresses, locking her in position as Rhiannon's mouth battles with hers. It's filled with adoration and longing and so, so much passion. "Hi, baby." She quips with a toothy grin, crawling into her wife's lap thereafter.

She tucks her head under Soleil's chin, nestling comfortably against her chest. Her nostrils suck in Soleil's sweet vanilla scent, totally at ease in her wife's grasp. "Have a good day?"

*smirks*
I know.
*peppers face with kisses*
I missed your cute tush all day today.
*wraps arms around her neck*
I took Fish and Luna for a walk. And then we got ice cream. What about you? How was your day?

Elouise was a selfish person. There was no use denying that. But, she had a heart. Maybe not a conscience, but that didn't matter. At just about dinner time, a knock would come at the door of The Whitaker's townhouse. At the doorstep, they would find their beloved Fish in his travel crate, as well as a note taped to the top of it.

Soleil,

I never meant to make you feel trapped. I loved you, and I betrayed you. I know I took you for granted, and I hurt you. I know I could have ruined your beautiful marriage. I won't make excuses for that. You were, are, and always will be in my heart. I'm sorry.

*smirks*
Quiet girls get rewarded.
*nips at her jaw*
Don't worry. Margot will go back when she's ready. She's going through a lot, right now. Be patient? For me?
*so much hand wandering*
*so* convincing*

*toothy grin*
Yeah? Good. We have all of the makings for sundaes.
*kisses her jaw*
I was thinking I could get you into something similar later...
*smug as hell*
Really, I'm only here for your cute tush.

Other Work Wife
Call the police?? Are you insane?? And, hell no. I don't want children. I just happen to enjoy this ONE baby. Aside from his given name. Well. Hold on, there. It's sort of confusing. His birth certificate says Wolverine, but I'm supposed to call him Logan??? OH. I get it now. I almost appreciate the effort.

Other Work Wife
Chocolate Chip. Duh. He is my best guy friend here. I tried to rename him and keep him as my own, but apparently you can't do that with other people's children. Camille boo-hoo'ed my dreams!

Other Work Wife
I don't know. Did it work? You're 23? Why are you married? Are you insane? No, I didn't have a kid. I'm watching a little boy belonging to Camille's friend. Crew-mate. Something. I don't know. She's tall and she's ditched her kid with us. Anyways.
I gave him a cookie and some juice. And apparently that wasn't okay? And now he's asleep, and I can't tell if it's because he's tired or if I put him in a coma.

*gentle kiss*
I was going to get you a puppy, but... We'll pick one out together. Also, we're getting a puppy. Isn't that exciting!?
*looms over*
Instead, I got you a little something... It's out front.

Soleil
Good ole' NY.
I miss that complete feeling NY used to give me.
I'm sober now.
After Nathan's death and my last trip with tequila I had realized that I couldn't live like that anymore.
Are we a still good?

Margot narrows her eyes at the challenge, and starts flinging open the pantry to stuff her face equally flustered by the stand off. But she had to satisfy the hunger from the earlier consumed sheet of special brownies. "Fine!" She responds with a mouthful and turns to stomp in the opposite direction.

Margot tilts her head and makes a grabby hand at the fridge that Soleil is blocking. "Quick! I need to eat all the tasty brownies in the fridge. RHIANNON NEVER LETS ME HAVE ANY." For good reason. Since apparently she's way out of normality. She clears her throat and straightens her shoulders. "Please?"

Margot sighed and placed the items back on the counter top. "I'm just having some fun. I didn't think it would be Sussy as spunk." Obvi, she had misheard.Grumbling she eyed the area around Soleil trying to find her out.

You were passed out. It's not like I could have moved you on my own.
*totally could have*
*cops a feel*
I like you any way, baby. You know that. But this butt? Universally great. Perfect. Just the cutest, best butt.

What do you think of me?!
*hands phone*
I didn't take any pictures of you unconscious like that.
Just some cute pictures other times you've been sleeping.
*big grin, wraps arms around*
You do have a nice bum, though. Top shelf.

So let's just work on being closer together, instead of growing apart.
*leans on*
I need you, Soleil. All of the time. Every damn day.
*grins*
You're the love of my life, and that's never going to change.

Because I am here for you.
*slips fingers through her hair*
Don't you know that you are the oxygen in my lungs? I suffocate without you near. I belong to you, body and soul.
*tugs in gently*
I don't care what you do. I care that you still love me, and that you're sorry. And I know you do and that you are. So.
*kisses gently*
I can get past this, if you're willing to.

*folds arms*
I'm not going to pretend it's easy.
*frowns*
When you're not around, I...
*clears throat*
I feel like I want to die. But then I see you, and I realize the strength and importance of forgiveness.
*reaches for*
You're the love of my life, Soleil Whitaker. We're both going to be okay. You forgave me, when I didn't deserve it. I know how you feel, riddled with guilt... Wanting to jump in front of a train. The idea of hurting you... I can only imagine how you feel.
*presses lips to her forehead*
But I mean it when I say you and I.

*hands wander*
*cops a feel*
I'm just so in love with you. It's about your soul and mine. Made for each other.
*nuzzles cheek*
You and I. Forever.
*tilts her chin, kisses passionately*
It's just a coincidence the sex is amazing.

Nothing is cuter than Lady Shortcake.
*eyes up and down*
Except maybe you.
*small smile*
That sounds delicious. Chinese food and movie date? I could use some snuggles.
*still holding close*
I just want to be near you.

Rhiannon pushes herself from the bed, taking the few steps to gather her dejected wife up in her arms. She doesn't want to be a hypocrite. She doesn't want to push her away. The angel, however, doesn't know how to process the immense amount of repressed grief weighing her done. So, she continues to ignore it. Instead, one arm keeps Soleil in a tight grip while the other lifts up, fingers gently tracing her cheek.

"I value you, for every part of you. I don't say that often enough." She whispers into her ear, hot breath caressing her pale skin. Her nose nuzzles against her, until her lips sink into a kiss against the tender neck of her skin. It's simple, slow moments back towards the bed, in which Rhiannon coaxes Soleil into a calmness she hasn't felt for days. Comfort. Love.

As the light seeps into the hotel windows, Rhiannon looks back to Soleil from her perch on the chair across the room. She watches Soleil's untroubled, restful sleep. The way the sun illuminates her curves compels Rhiannon to crawl back into bed, weight sinking down upon her as Rhiannon's hips press Soleil's down. There's no expression on the angel's face as she watches her wife slowly stir, her eyes wide and unsure.

"I want to be mad. I want to punish you..." but she understands now why Soleil had never done the same to her. The agony is punishment enough. And the lack of physical and emotional intimacy is driving her wild. She wants to feel normal, even for a minute. Even if it's not right. Even if it won't help in the end.

Rhiannon brushes past Soleil as she pushes herself off the ground, fumbling for a travel toothbrush and toothpaste in the bathroom. She soaks in the solitude, considering her actions clearly as a cool mint taste refreshes the once burning taste of acid. With a clearer head, the angel reappears, slender fingers wrapping around Soleil's, which fidget with obvious distress.

At the end of the day... Rhiannon can learn to forgive. She knows it's possible. She'll never be able to admit she had figured the affair had already occurred. She isn't proud, but she isn't stupid, either. It was just a matter of time. She stands there in silence, eyes focused on Soleil's fingers, and the way Rhiannon's intertwine with them. It feels right.

Soleil will always feel right.

"You're not allowed to go anywhere." She whispers, cold, damp lips against the corner of Soleil's own. Caramel eyes shut as she breaths in Soleil's scent. It's different, but she can't place it. Probably best for Soleil she not even mention it. She relishes in the hold, the way Soleil is frozen, in shame, and maybe in fear. The power Rhiannon holds compels her to act.

Her heart clenches as Soleil pleads. She wants to give a dismissive hand. To be as quick to forgive as Soleil had been. She just doesn't seem capable of doing do. "You should have thought of all you had to lose, then." She mutters, back to her wife. "I think... I don't think I can do this..." She's still musing aloud, but only to herself. The fact that Soleil can hear is only an after thought.

"I can walk away. I should walk away." Her tone is determined, yet... It's only her options. Not her choice. "And what if I stay? Do I get to think about the way she touched you? The way she defiled you? Is that it?"

She is bound to be sick, this time. She stumbles away, the contents of her last meal spilling into the wastebasket. She sits in a trembling heap, unable to speak while her stomach settles. "You f*cked another woman, the only woman you knew I couldn't look past." She lets out a soft moan, arms wrapping around herself in comfort. "I feel..." She can't place the emotion. "Like I'm dying." Ah, there it is. The pain, so piercing, she feels like a gaping hole in her chest is spilling out.

"How can you say you love me, if you could turn around and do such a thing? You can't. You just can't." She bows her head, so ashamed of her wife. "Did you think about Wilson? Did you think about our family? Of course you didn't. You're a selfish, selfish child."

"That's what you do, isn't it? You stomp, and you yell, and you break. Until there's nothing left to destroy. You're destructive." Rhiannon spits her words like venom. But she isn't in the mood to hurt. Not even in the slightest sense of the word.

A wail catches in Rhiannon throat. No. No pain. No anguish. Soleil doesn't get to see the hurting. Rhiannon had gotten it all out when she had first gotten to the hotel. She just stares, a slow nod her first sign of reaction. "You loved her. I knew you lied." She spits, turning to pace off further into the room.

In truth, Rhiannon doesn't know what to do. She wanted the time alone to speak, but couldn't bear Soleil's absence. Funny, the way a fickle heart works. And how a broken one still beats. "Why? Why?" She just can't wrap her head around it. They were fine. Not just fine. Good. Happy. In love.

Soleil had f*cked it all up.

"Should I leave you? Is that what you want? Are you trying to push me away, like you always do? Because you're winning, Soleil. You're winning."

Rhiannon sits in a ball in the center of the grand mattress. She hugs her legs to her chest, chin resting on her knees for comfort. She hears the click of the door as the room key swipes, and as Soleil calls out, once dead eyes spring to life as she comes into few. "I couldn't fall asleep." She states simply, sucking in a shaky breath.

She sheds the blankets, wearing little else than the t-shirt she'd had on earlier. She watches Soleil's reaction as she closes in. Soleil's scent is intoxicating to the woman, and she wants to pull her close. Press her face to her neck, and forget about her troubles. But, she can't. She can't seem to allow herself to forgive the way Soleil had. The situations are different. And for Soleil to think otherwise is ridiculous.

"Admit what you did." She commands. But Soleil stays silent in her shame. "Say it." She asks again, but Soleil ignores the request. So, Rhiannon lifts a hand, prepare to smarten her wife's face. But... She can't. She can never harm this woman. Her charge. The love of her life.

She just doesn't have it within her. So, her hand remains suspended in the air.

She stares at her phone, now situated in a comfortable, yet impersonal room at the Four Seasons. She wants to call Soleil. Not to yell. Just to listen to the sound of her breath, her heartbeat... Anything to help lull her to sleep. She can't stand the silence, so deafening and crushing Rhiannon feels like she's choking. So, she breaks down.

"No," She states, already making her way for the door. "You're staying." She stuffs her keys into her pocket, pausing in the doorway to stare Soleil down. "The cupcakes will be done in about 18 minutes. Don't forget to take them out. I made the frosting myself... It's in the fridge." She runs down a mental check-list, mind still on Wilson. "I'll pick up a present for him. It's his birthday coming up. But you know that." She clears her throat, trying to rid the sick feeling that keeps rising in it.

"I'll be back tomorrow, for the visit." A finger scratches idly at her cheek. "And I'll decide what I want after Wilson leaves." She doesn't even seem to comprehend her own calmness. "I'll let Margot know where I'm staying." And then, she feels a wave of emotions rising, evident in her now quavering tone.

"Bye, baby." She whispers, tears glimmering in her eyes. Because she's so disappointed, but in truth... She was simply waiting for the numbered day. It was inevitable, in her mind.

She knew there was something off in Soleil, even before she embraced her. The usual warmth and exuberance is missing from her wife as she stands there, inevitably rebuffing her need for physical contact. Rhiannon takes a harsh swallow, now at arm's length from her lover, worry etching itself in her brow. "Soleil..." Her frown grows, a sense of foreboding filling her body.

There's a long silence after Soleil utters the words.

'I'm sorry, Rhiannon. I'm so sorry'. Caramel eyes stare at the woman who refuses to look back at her. Shame exudes from her small stature. And Rhiannon isn't a dumb woman, not by any stretch.

The angel sucks in a shallow breath, already knowing what Soleil can't bring herself to say. Her worst fear, and she knows, with Elouise. "Okay." She lets out a short sigh, head bobbing several times in a nod. "Okay." The second time, it's more of a hiccup than an actual word. Rhiannon turns away, moving to collect the items scattered about the kitchen counters. Her cellphone. Her purse, car-keys hanging from a hook on the wall.

"I..." Her speech hits a wall. All she can do is look at Soleil, disappointment prominent in her eyes. She feels sick to her stomach, prepared to lose the contents of her lunch right there in front of her wife. "I guess we're even, then." The words hang with so much hurt, with a genuine heartbreak that Rhiannon has never experienced before.

Rhiannon is dedicated to getting the home clean and prepared for Wilson. It's with an ease and serenity that she conducts herself around her own domain. She wears an idle smile as she works in her kitchen, until she catches sight of Soleil out of the corner of her eye.

An excited squeal escapes her lips as she drops her oven mitts, padding over in hopes of taking her up in her arms. "Hi, baby!" She exclaims.

*reads texts*
She's going through a lot, it seems. But you're not her slave.
*pulls her close*
I don't think I should go back. This is between you and her.
*frowns*
I'll just see you back in New York, okay? That seems better.

Soleil
I HAVEN'T LOOKED AT HER LONG ENOUGH TO DECIDE THAT BUT IT DOESN'T MATTER. I NEED YOUR HELP. SOLEIL. LLOYD IS WHEREVER THE F*CK HE IS AND I DON'T HAVE A LAWYER AND I NEED A DIVORCE AND I NEED MY BEST FRIEND AND I NEED YOU TO COME HERE RIGHTNOW.

*wraps arms around her*
*kisses all over*
I was just cleaning. Took a nap. It's a good thing I love you, y'know. Because open water? It's a no-go for me.
*winks*
But I'm always happy to have some cake by the ocean.

*wheezes*Good to know.
*kisses her nose*
I'm just as addicted to you. Sometimes, I get a little impatient. But then again, so do you.
*smirks*
I give it another minute before you're guiding my hand yourself.

New Contact: SoleilI promise, my intentions are entirely honorable, in that I have literally zero intentions. Scout's Honor. But, sure. A drink would be nice. Time and place. You must know I'm Atticus by now, but, worth repeating.

*cups her chin*
You're going to spend the next little bit under me, if that's okay.
*serious heart eyes*
I love you, Mrs. Whitaker.
*somehow already got her naked*
I've been thinking about you all day.

Text To: Rhiannon's MrsRight, so, is there something I did to provoke such a requirement? She invited me out with the two of you sometime. I accepted. She wrote her number on my hand. That was our level of interaction. I don't flirt with married women. And since I'm fairly certain you could kick my ass, I wouldn't try, even if I wanted to. I think we're all capable of being pals. Huh?

Text To: Jealous AnonI don't know who your wife is, but I assure you, I have sought out literally no one today. However, I shall now chat up every married woman I met today in an effort to identify you.
Or, we could grab coffee so you can punch me in the face in person, and get this over with. Your choice.

*wraps up*
What? No.
*drags*
Didn't you see the rose petals scattered in the bedroom? We're getting down tonight.
*blinks*
It was supposed to sound more romantic than that. I lit tiny candles and everything!

I made you a quiche.
*scoops her up, plops onto couch*
*nestles up, presses kiss to her neck*
And I did some painting.
*keeps kissing*
I think you should let me paint you.
*pulls back, smirks*
In the nude?

*stupid in love*
*kisses vehemently and repeatedly*
I think the sex is better in France.
*cheeky grin*
We'll go on a world tour. See where we like it best.
*trails kisses*
I'll always prefer the brownstone, in our bed.

Soleil
There was a time when I didn't feel I was worth meeting Noah. In fact, I think our introduction was accidental on Caitlyn's part. But I could never walk away. I love him. I'm glad to hear he's at least a fan.

You know I think only of you, always. Can I be blamed for spoiling you?
*nips at her neck*
I've been thinking about one thing, in particular. And if that text was any indication, you know exactly what's on my mind.

*keeps gaze focused intently on her*
I agree. The view is unchallenged.
*steals a gentle kiss*
It won't be too long before we're back in New York and hopefully with Wilson, but...
*kisses her jaw*
This is heaven, too.

Soleil
You'll be plenty fun. You seem the type. You've taken care of my drunk ass on more than one occasion. And what are toddlers but tiny, drunk adults?
Plus, the boys adore you. I think you'll be perfectly fun.

TLF
You're asking the wrong man for parenting advice. I tend to be the firm hand with them. Cait is always... The fun one. Frazzled.
Lots of hugs, plenty of kisses, and never turn the light off if Legos are on the floor. You're simply asking to wound yourself.

*pouts and whines*
I'll pay for them later. But I wasn't finished.
*squirms*
*freak strength, flips her back over*
Plus, I was comfy.
*snuggles back up, plants another hickey*
*mumbles something about buying an apartment in Cannes*

*knits brow*
Dessert before dinner, then?
*nips at her neck*
You're a bad influence, Soleil Whitaker.
*nuzzles crook of her neck*
I just want naked snuggles. And then after dinner, we can...
*murmurs in her ear, grins*

TLF
That's certainly... Different.
2 is tough age. I raised my niece for a while, and she was full of tantrums as a toddler. Best of luck to you in that endeavor. He's lucky to have to gracious, patient parents. I feel I may have been too immature to handle her as best as she deserved.

*squints right back*
Because your naked little butt was all sprawled out and sleeping. I didn't have the heart to wake you up.
*steals another kiss*
And, no. They weren't whistling at me. They were definitely whistling at her.
*clears throat*
Pretty sure she didn't put a bra on.
*nuzzles*
Love you too.

TLF
She'll get past it. I promise.
Caitlyn wants more kids. I haven't made up my mind yet.
A girl would be nice. And I like to keep Caitlyn happy.
However, the idea of raising MORE babies is...
I need an Advil PM.

TLF
I'm lucky to have them. She's a strong woman, and certainly doesn't need me to be so. I do, however, adore her sons as my own. Parenting is a rare blessing. Given what I am, I wasn't keen on passing anything on to another generation. This was a happy coincidence.

TLF
When one finds themselves confronted with a woman far beyond their own means, it's best to jump in head first and grasp at all you can. Other people won't understand. Most don't get as lucky as you or I.
Or, in my case, I decided to try love and marriage once, to do it decently, and only once. And if possible, have it last a lifetime.

TLF
Business. I was in Paris for about a month.
That sounds lovely. I know Cait would certainly enjoy it.
As for time and pace... I married a woman who was five months pregnant. Time and pace are for people who waste it.

TLF
I can understand the sentiment.
I've lost track of so much time, lately.
Caitlyn and the boys are good. Everyone is keeping busy.
How is the wife? I'd ask if anyone was pregnant, but I suppose that's the point of being a tiny lesbian.

*knits brow*
I think someone just needs to worry about their 'resilience', instead. Because I promise you, naked cuddles are not foreplay.
*nips at her neck*
Foreplay is when I put on that lingerie you like and only let you undo it with your teeth. Mm?

*blushes*
What can I say? Two of my favorite things. Architecture and my wife. It turns me on.
*nips at her neck*Especially when you're the one building. So hot.
*smirks*
Got me feeling some type of way.

Not good enough. You always bring me home little presents. I just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you. Not that I'm not always thinking about you. But especially today.
*nuzzles*
Kiss?
*taps lips*

*grumbles*
Not my fault your big ass knocked all the water on the floor.
*big doe eyes*
I like your butt just the way it is. And it's not big.
*squints*
Unless you want it to be big? Then it's big.
*serious heart eyes*
Sorry. I'm nervous. I just love you a lot, okay?

Oh, baby, I remember the look of shock on your face when I kissed you outside of Nick's. Don't act like you were anything less than D-T-F.
*nuzzles*
It wasn't just about sex. Well... It wasn't not just about sex. I wanted you from the second I saw you. All of you, in every possible way. I just adored you. And you were just as much of a goner. If you thought even for a second you were getting rid of me that next morning, you were sorely mistaken.

*grins*
You know there never had to be much convincing.
*kisses her jaw*
I had every intention of having mind-blowing sex with you from the minute I saw you. I just waited a little bit so I didn't seem totally tactless.
*keeps kissing*
You know that, don't you? I wanted you from the second I saw you. You didn't stand a chance.

*pulls blanket away*
I like a happy wife.
*paws at*
I like the sound of laughter on those lips of yours.
*leans in, presses lingering kiss to her lips*
I like a lot of things about your lips, as a matter of fact.
*smirks*

Very happily stuck, mind you.
*still sniffling*
You know I'll find you, no matter what shoes you walk in. It's always going to be you and I, Soleil Whitaker.
*smothers in kisses*
You and I. My promise to you.

*openly crying, now*
What the f*ck, Soleil.
*wipes away tears*
How is it possible to love you as much as I do?
How is it possible you love me so much?
*holds her close*
How do you manage to break my heart and keep it held together all at the same time?

*gets all teary eyed*
Damn it, babe.
*sniffles*
You know I love it when you say that.
*pulls into snuggle*
Can I just hold you?
*maybe, probably crying*
I do love it when you say that, you know. I know how hard it was to let me into your heart.

*pads in*Because, she's my sister. And she has abandonment issues.
*lifts her up onto the countertop*
And what did I read about special brownies?
*smirks, pulls into lingering kiss*
You look beautiful.

You'd be way more tan if you spent less time rolling around in bed with me and more like laying out here, it might be a different story.
*trails kisses*
But I'm not sacrificing any wife time, so... You're destined for this porcelain skin for life.

Rude, Forever Wife
:( I'm all snuggly here, though.
And I'm in the perfect position to hold you.
I don't need a book, or a glass of wine.
Just wanna hold you and play with your hair until you fall asleep.

Yeah. I know that. You know I know that.
*eyes over*
You didn't choose, though. Chinese? Or am I cooking?
*pulls away, slow stretch*
I need to shower first, regardless. Then we can binge on the couch. Yeah?

*hums*
Just reminding you of a few double standards.
*tugs on her shorts*
I'm not really all that mad.
*kisses her jaw*
You were just doing what you thought was right, baby. And that should be rewarded.
*pulls back some*
So what do you want?

so hot OMG
baby i would NEVER cheat on u.
we don''t need condoms remember ;)
pls come get me. destiny and ginger keep trying to get me to pay for a backroom dance
is that for sex? help
i jus wanna have sex w/ u pls

*smug grin*Yeah, not even an earthquake.
... I'd venture to say nothing is capable of keeping me from having my way with you, love of mine. It's biology.
*pulls off her shirt*
And I'm about to worship you like the holy gospel, babe.

*soft sigh*
Yeah. I'm just about ready for bed, at this point.
*eyes her over*
At some point, baby, you need to put yourself first. Everything can't stop the second Elouise calls. Whatever is going on with her...it weighs on you. In ways I can't help.

"I...I need time to think. Give me some time to think?" She isn't trying to keep anything from Soleil. Quite the contrary. She's simply trying to reason with herself at this juncture. "Come tomorrow. We can talk. Okay? We'll talk tomorrow." Clearing her throat, she pressed her phone briefly to her forehead before adding a final few words.

She paused, breathing heavily from the other end of the line. "Stay. It's no use, right now...Jason tripped the alarm, the system's locked up, and no one's getting in our out. Come in the morning. Nothing...nothing can really chance right now, right?" Her tone carried a hopeful note, hoping that Soleil would offer reassurance to a bleak reality.

*shrugs*
I was very intent the other night to do just that. Had to check we didn't break the laws of biology.
*prods*
But you know, you'd be so cute pregnant. And your boobs would get bigger. That's a plus. That should be the reason you do it, if for nothing else.

*grips her waist*
I know all of that. And frankly, I wish I could say it swayed my mind.
*straddles her hips*
Unfortunately... It drives me wild I didn't come first.
*cups her chin*
However, I think I know what would make me feel so much better.

*disappointed sigh*
You do show me just how much you love me. I could never forget.
*frowns*
I don't like self doubt on you.
Don't you know by now you could never disappoint me?
*pulls into gentle kiss*
I'm yours. So... Stop fidgeting, and put your hands to good use.

*tosses shirt aside*
*climbs on*
I'm about to show you a very particular type of attention.
*beams*
I just like cuddling with you. I could snuggle into your boobs and sleep for a century. And I would, if you'd let me.

*hunts down*
*scoops up*
I never said you could leave bed.
*carries back to bedroom*
I'm all sorts of needy right now, and only in the ways you can cure.
*winks at*
That, and I just want to grope you. I'm a woman of simple tastes.

*paws at*
It's not luck. We've been over this.
*nuzzles*
Figured... You took me out last night, it was my job to plan the date tonight. I just didn't want to share even a second of your time with anyone else.

*so red*
I'm sorry, okay? I was sleepy, and you were going slow.
*wheezes*
Which is fine, of course.
*pulls off her shirt*
Now I'm going to take you to Flavortown.
*wide eyes*
I can't believe that just came out of my mouth.

"Hmm." Tucker needs to consider the question for a moment. Elouise had indeed showed him around, but he's not sure he feels so inclined to admit that he's lost already. Something, something, over encumbered male ego. "Yeah, alright. She has, and I'm completely turned around."

An eager hand rubs against the back of his neck and he looks over his shoulder to further inspect another set of doors that look exactly the same.

"They design the place like this on purpose? Install cameras to watch the new guys wander around like idiots?" Humorously, Tucker cranes his neck to peer up into the crooks of the ceiling, eyeing around for tiny little cameras.

*beams*Yes, you do. And you work hard.
*unabashedly cops a feel*
But somebody doesn't get to enjoy these hands when they're all tied up.
*chaste kiss*
And vice versa. I like being able to touch you, baby. You know that.

It's not difficult in the least to snap Tucker out of his curious daze. He's turned down three different hallways, and has not managed to find the door marked Toby yet. Or was it Tyler? One way or another, Elouise had decided that he was anyone besides Tucker.

"I, err, what?" Tucker spins around to find yet another unfamiliar face, though that was to be expected considering his status. New Guy.

"Oh, hello." He offers a small wave with the very tips of his fingers. "Yes, that would be me. Mr. Olympic Curler in the flesh."

*grins*
You and I. Always.
*scoops her up*
In the bedroom, though. I don't want to traumatize Margot... More than she already is.
*attempts to walk and kiss*
It'll be better once we're back home. No interruptions. Just you and me.

Vee read the message from Soleil and tucked her phone into a back pocket. She carefully wove through the crowd toward the back in search of her friend, offering a string of 'excuse me' and 'pardon me' along the way.

Spotting the unmistakable blonde head, Vee grinned, slipping past the final human barrier. "The crowd doesn't matter. I've found more privacy in them than most people realize." She slid into the booth, opposite of Soleil. "Hello again. What's your poison?"

Soleil
Why not? He's a thuuuursty byotch, just like his momma. The formula's working fine.
And yes. Sleeping. Took a bit to get him sleeping last night, but he's been sleeping most of the day.
Such a snuggle bug.

Noura feels the brush of fingers against her back pocket as she creeps through the corridors of the Order with a small duffelbag in hand. Glancing over her shoulder, she spies the pixie-looking girl and smirks. She winks at the girl and rounds the corner without a word.

Soleil
I'll be back in a few minutes with lunch.
I don't like not being able to touch you.
Being able to hold you is what keeps me grounded to the universe. I think of lifetimes spent holding you.
No more 'no touching'.
... I'll admit it was hot, though. 😳

-reaches for nameless squish-
I was thinking Grant. Or Logan. I don't know. I still think he looks more like an Elouise Junior.
-smothers baby in kisses, because omg-
Go bang your wife, horndog. It's not like the two of us are going anywhere.

-keeps turning around in her seat to check-
He doesn't have a name. I couldn't think of anything good. Rambo seemed too...f*cking stupid. And if I name him after Jameson...that's weird, right? Like? That's the name of the man I bang, and my baby? No. Ew.

Rhiannon's eyes shut briefly, a soft exhale leaving her lips as Soleil's hands behind to wander. "Tonight? You know that I am." She moves to remove her own shirt, tossing it aside haphazardly. "I still need right now, though. Unless you don't think you can properly woman-handle your wife..." It was as clear a taunt as any. And Rhiannon knew exactly what she was in for.

"I wouldn't offer if I wasn't sure. You know that." She pressed her lips against Soleil's in an almost harsh manner, pressing her further against the mattress in the process. "Show me what you want to do to her." It was a command, and Rhiannon loosened her grip so Soleil could attempt to oblige.

"I want to know what's going on in that head of yours, gorgeous girl."

Frankly, Soleil's response didn't matter. Rhiannon knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt that her heart was only meant for the angel. Still, she felt the need to make her territory known. "You're mine, Soleil Whitaker. Do you understand?" She pulled her hands free of her wife's grip, fingers weaving their way in her hair. She scowled, giving a tug against Soleil's short tresses to expose her neck. Her teeth graze against the tender skin of her neck, lips working their way up until they're pressed against her ear.

"She can look, but she'll never, ever touch. Not like I can." There's a triumphant manner to the smirk worn on Rhiannon's lips as she pulled back. "Do you think your 'friend' is attractive? Mm? This is the one you wanted to have fun with?" Rhiannon's hovering again, caramel eyes alight with amusement. "Bring her into bed then, baby."

Rhiannon was the jealous type. Territorial, even. And since Soleil had made mention of a new friend, the angel was more curious than ever to determine this new woman's 'intentions'. She wasn't normally one to read Soleil's text messages, but given the fact that her wife was either talking to her, or to this 'Vee' character, her interest was piqued.

And then, of course, there's an angry Rhiannon straddling Soleil's formerly sleeping figure, cellphone waving angrily in the air. "Cute face? Cuddles?!" She hissed before tossing the phone aside. "Who is this b*tch? I'll kill her! I'll do it!" And then, she smacked Soleil's no doubt sleepy and bewildered face with a pillow. "What the f*ck is wrong with you? Am I not good enough? Do you want me to go to prison for murder?!"

*complies, because again, total puppy*
Biased, maybe, but facts are facts.
*hands start to wander*
We can definitely go to Nick's when I'm done. Take a toast in honor of the best sex of your life.
*smirk only grows*

TLF
I was with my siblings. Not the sort of trip Caitlyn enjoys.
But, yes, entirely settled in. Although, Cait's friend keeps stealing Rigsby. I believe you have some stiff competition.
And, as far as complicated and Mrs. Orlav goes, try being her legal counsel.

Tiny Lesbian Friend
I was actually away for a few weeks, just got home yesterday.
Home, of course, being Bloemfontein, now.
I know things weren't ideal when I left Moscow. Hopefully, things look up for the Orlavs.

*nervous laugh*
That's a good thing, then. Isn't it?
*strokes her back soothingly*My forever means finding you in every lifetime you lead. Okay?
*cups her chin*
The love I feel for you is immeasurable.
*presses loving kiss to her lips*
I will always be yours.

*so alarmed*Woah. Soleil.
*pulls back some to look at her*
You could be... A serial murderer. I would still love you. Do you understand? I will always love you, for whatever you are and whatever you do. No conditions, or expectations.
*kisses her forehead*
It's gonna be you and I forever, baby. Nothing could ever interfere with that. Do you understand? Nothing. So long as you love me... So long as you want me, I will be here. And even if you don't want me, I'll stay. That's what love is, wife of mine. I will never stop loving you.

*squeezes her affectionately*
I didn't do much... Made you that cake, and dinner, but Margot will eat it if you're not going to.
*presses a kiss atop her head*
Thought about you quite a bit. I worry when you're not with me.

*beams*
I like it when you're flustered.
*tugs on her shirt*
What can I say? It's a turn on.
*starts to pull away*
You're right, though. We have plans. I'll wait for you in the living room, like I said.

Church sexy? It's like...
*squints*
The kind of sexy that's okay for you, and therefore you don't have to murder anyone who looks at me.
*nuzzles*
I'm excited. Nick's is a special place for us, y'know?

Vee's head turned this way and that, blue eyes wide; the picture of a curious kitten who's discovered something of interest. Soleil's inflection of the word caught her full attention. It hadn't been an accident.

The broad grin suddenly reappeared. "I'm sure you make a striking couple." It softened a touch. "I may admire but I do respect boundaries. Drinks with two pretty ladies is a good night by any standards."

Another bout of laughter. Joyous, free; never mocking. This was a woman who smiled often and easily, who took great pleasure in life. She liked this Soleil. "I will never deny an offer for a drink. I hope your wife doesn't try to shank me... spouses can be territorial."

"My parents can be," Vee hesitated, lips twisting to the side as she searched for the best word, "let's say unconventional."

The blatant elevator eyes didn't make her uncomfortable. Exactly the opposite. She repaid Soleil the favor in full. "Likewise." Airy laughter bubbled up. "Careful, you may never be rid of me. I'll be around, for sure."

If being a teenager means I don't have to let you out of this bed, then, sure, I'm a teenager.
*nuzzles more*
So soft. I missed them. I missed them more than I missed you.
*paws at*
I'm kidding... Kind of.

The angel, of course, is otherwise preoccupied as she tosses Soleil onto the bed, not wasting any time in undressing the younger woman. "Hm?" She hums, pulling off her own shirt with ease. "Oh." She blinks, sitting up to straddle Soleil's hips. "I love you too, cranky girl." Her face splits in a goofy smile, caramel eyes alight in amusement.

It doesn't take much for Rhiannon to get carried away when Soleil is on top of her. Her hands naturally gravitate to grip her waist, distracted, of course, by the taste of her lips. She pulls away, though, letting out a soft sigh of frustration. "Shouldn't have brought Margot..." She murmurs, scooping Soleil up and tossing her over her shoulder.

"There's a TV in the bedroom, baby." After delivering a slap to her ass, Rhiannon is trotting with purpose back for the bedroom. "That okay?"

"Netflix and chill." The angel muses, moving to shamelessly cop a feel of her wife's behind before guiding her back towards the sofa with ease. "Happy to oblige, love of mine." Rhiannon, above all else, is happy to see her wife feeling and acting herself again. She pauses, lips finding Soleil's in a concerted effort to channel as much fervor and love as possible into the younger woman.

She is distracted, pulling Soleil down onto the cushions an almost mindless act. She does, however, catch herself and refrain from pursuing things further. With a haphazard cough, she motions for the remote. "You pick, babe."

As Soleil steps into the living area, Rhiannon closes the book in her hand, tossing it onto the coffee table as she moves to wrap her arms around her wife's torso affectionately. "Hey, sleepy head." She grins, nuzzling Soleil affectionately. "I figured I'd just let you sleep until you woke up... I didn't consider that might be the entire day." Her tone carries relief, amusement, and as always, a lot of love.

Rhiannon's mind is clear as Soleil grows more animated, leaving the angel a bit breathless, and desperate, when she pulls away. "I missed you too." She states, letting out a breathless laugh. "Come back." She huffs, tangling herself once more in a fervent kiss. "I love you, too. I missed this. F*ck. Did I miss this." She's side-tracked, her might abuzz with the newly acquainted ability to hold her wife, and the sensation of their lips dueling.

"Slow? Just you, and me." She nudges her nose against Soleil's, already edging herself in for another kiss. "I said Margot is gone, didn't I?" As she speaks, the angel is already pulling off her own shirt, tossing it aside. "This is okay?" She inquires, eyebrows aloft in question.

"Stop apologizing, babe." She frowns, holding Soleil close. "Do you know how much I love you?" She cups her chin, pulling her into a lingering, gentle kiss. "Hold on." She murmurs, leaning in for another kiss. "Stay." She adds in a short tone, climbing out of bed and padding back into the larger living area. After a few minutes she returns, crawling back into bed, and subsequently, Soleil's arms.

"You don't need to try more, you don't need to be better. You are already the best for me, Soleil Whitaker." She leans in, pressing a kiss against her neck. "Don't say sorry again, okay?" She cups her chin again, seeking her gaze. "You're perfect to me."

Holding her wife close, Rhiannon lets out a happy sigh. "Margot went to the store." She adds with a vague smile, nuzzling against her neck. "We can lay here for a while, yeah? Just let me hold you?"

Soleil is apologizing yet again, and and Rhiannon is moving to accept it, to pull her in, but then her wife breaks down, arms wrapped around herself in comfort. Momentarily, the angel pauses. Rather than seek comfort from Rhiannon, Soleil had collapsed into herself. A pang of regret strikes in her heart, but she quickly recovers. Stooping down, she wraps her arms around Soleil, gathering her up into her arms. "Baby, no..." She whispers in a coaxing tone, holding her tightly against her own slender frame.

Rhiannon lifts her pathetic form up, stepping quietly over towards the bed. Rhiannon recalls the first night they'd spent together was in this bed. Seeing as Soleil was still inconsolable, she decided to whisper comforting words. "I loved you from the first night we spend together here. Do you know that? Nothing could ever change that..."

She presses a kiss to her head, a happy sigh spilling out. "We've built a beautiful life together, you and I. Whatever's happening, Soleil... You have to be stronger. Rely on me, please. Let me share the burden. Let me comfort you."

"I came because you needed me! I don't know what kind of f*cked up sh*t is going on, but I can take care of myself. Your lack of faith in my ability to do so floors me to no end. I am not helpless, and I'm a hell of a lot stronger than you, if you haven't noticed." She retorts, hands on her hips. "Whatever is going on, you can't cope on your own. I'm here, because I can't stand that you're in pain. Baby, you don't know what you looked like. What you're feeling, what you're thinking..." she shutters. The empath she is, Rhiannon is sharing in Soleil's worries, wounds, and tumultuous emotions.

"You're not on your own anymore, so stop with the stiff upper lip bullsh*t, and let me help you!" Letting out a soft sigh, Rhiannon pauses to wipe away more wayward tears. "You're not eating, or sleeping, you're obviously... Haunted by something, and you want me to disregard that and leave? I can't. I won't."

"Don't do that." She noted, gesturing towards her crossed arms. "Come here, please. We can have an argument, but I don't want the distance." Rhiannon reaches over to pull Soleil back, but as the woman jerks away, the angel grows annoyed. Caramel eyes ablaze, she struggled with her childishly obstinent wife, shocked at the amount of force Soleil was using to rebuff her. But rather than be deterred, Rhiannon unleashes the superior strength she often refused to showcase. However, the situation called for it.

At the end of the struggle, Rhiannon has Soleil's arms pinned against the mattress, legs straddling her hips. She sputters with her words, so offended by Soleil's attempt to fight her, and even know, that she would hurt herself in order to get away. "Are you happy?!" She exclaims, tears springing from her eyes. As Soleil tugs again, she firms up her grip. "Stop it!" Her voice is hoarse, heartbroken.

"You would have followed me! You know you would have!" She chokes up, simply releasing Soleil and getting up from the bed at that point. "Stop punishing me for loving you. Why does it always have to be a struggle?" A desperate hand wipes away tears.

While the angel didn't feel particularly good about drugging her wife, she knew that with the nightmares, she wouldn't be able to sleep restfully without a bit of help. With that in mind, she only hoped she wouldn't face too much backlash once she woke up.

With her beloved asleep, Rhiannon took the time to tuck her into bed, a gentle kiss placed upon her brow before she went out and prepared another quiche, this time, for Margot. She bided her time quietly, eventually slipping back into bed to hold Soleil. And after some time, she too was able to sleep, comforted by the sound of her wife's gentle heartbeat. Of course, when Soleil stirs, Rhiannon is immediately on edge.

Rhiannon is in the midst of cooking when the opening of the apartment door stirs her focus, but, before she can react, her wife is in her arms. Rhiannon holds on for dear life, her grip tight and desperate as she is assaulted by fervent kisses. Trying not to cry, the angel fails. She may have persevered, if her wife's appearance and demeanor hadn't been so shocking. She shoots a dismissive glance towards Margot, who retreats deeper into the apartment and out of sight.

The pair is silent as Rhiannon obliges her starving wife with quiche, as well as the majority of the groceries she'd picked up after departing from the airport. And, once Soleil is ready, Rhiannon guides her to bed. Her hold is gentle as she pulls her wife up against her. The angel lets out a heartbroken sigh, despondent at her wife's shocking appearance.

"I know you can't talk about it." She notes in a coaxing whisper, fingers soothingly combing through her short crop of hair. "I will always come to you when you're hurting. Whether or not you want me... I will never leave you."

"It wasn't my truth to tell, Soleil. What Jameson does...is to create a better, safer world." There isn't a hint of doubt as she speaks. Either the woman is brain-washed, or she truly believes in her husband. "It's the same as asking, do murderers deserve mercy? If he tortures a vampire in the midst of getting his results...is it truly so bad? To punish a criminal?" She looks at Soleil, unblinking.

"When he first showed me his lab, I wanted to run. I wanted not to love him, not to be a part of his life, or his work. I thought he was a psychopath." She rocks back in her chair, a hand resting idly on her mid-section. Rambo was, apparently, rather active as of late. "But Jameson is a man of science, worthy of admiration and respect. What he does, what he sacrifices, in order to one day provide a cure, I not only respect, but support. Before I became pregnant, I was beside him. We were partners, sharing in a vision."

And then, she frowns. "Something...changed. He pulled back, pulled away. He would disappear for periods of time...To locations I'm still unsure of. But I know that despite the nature of his work, he would never intentionally endanger me, or our son. Nor leave us, either." Something on one of the many monitors catches her eye, leaving a pause before she continues.

"He is a good man. And if he is a monster, then he is my monster. But I stand by him, and his mission. Our mission. If you were to know months ago...it was risky. You were new. I was trying to help you. Knowing what went on in that laboratory, I was unsure if you'd want to stay."

Elouise unlocks the heavy metal door from the inside, permitting Soleil's entrance into the white-washed room, housing the security that overlooked the entire compound. From the looks of things, and perhaps, the smell, Elouise had hardly moved from her perch here. She motions idly towards a spare chair before settling into her formative position. "I do not make a habit of torturing prisoners, Soleil. I had wished your introduction to Calvin would be...different." She clears her throat, cerulean eyes scanning screens, noting the locations of the several members spread out. She lets out a stifled yawn before continuing.

"I do not make a habit of torturing anyone, for that matter. Nor, do I frequent my husband's lab." She's quiet, calm as she speaks. Matter-of-fact, and precise. "But I believe in his work, I trust in his aims and goals, and I know that while the means are not preferable, if it takes a butcher to cure vampires, then he is the butcher we need." She rubs sleep from her eyes, an eerie calmness to her acceptance of her husband's nature.

"He is a monster to some, yes. And what you saw...was no assurance to his humanity. But I love him, and he loves me. I accepted this part of him long ago, Soleil. And he has my support. If you can't handle that..."

Rhiannon spends the morning like a ghost in her own home. Following Soleil about, checking (and re-packing) her luggage, and generally being incredibly miserable. The thought of any distance lances her through the heart, making the entire practice of sending her wife off that much more difficult. She is reluctant to release her from this final embrace, then, given that she truly has no idea how long it may be before she holds her again.

The thought terrifies Rhiannon. However, she knows even a shred of reluctance would keep Soleil in New York, and she can't afford this. "You will be constantly on my mind. The distance won't change that." She is holding Soleil, forehead presses to hers, as if to pass every loving thought by way of osmosis.

"I don't care what time it is in Moscow when you land. Call me when you arrive, call me every minute in-between..." The angel begins to choke up, her efforts to remain calm in vain. "You're my soulmate, Soleil. Please come back to me."

Rhiannon can hardly handle the whirlwind of emotions that seem to cycle through her wife. Ever the empath to her counterpart, the angel is reeling as well. Yet as she is lifted up into her hold, legs instinctively wrapping around Soleil, Rhiannon's mind falls to only one thought. She nods, a gentle kiss stealing the next words from Soleil's lips before they even have a chance to depart.

"It will feel long... But it isn't for an eternity. You and I will be back in each other's arms sooner than it seems." She offers a small, reassuring smile. "I'll wait for you, Soleil Whitaker."

Rhiannon had been prepared to use their final hours together expediently, but as tears are introduced to the scenario, Rhiannon's romantic fervor immediately switches to concern. "Baby," she coos, eyes wide in alarm. "We're both going to be fine." She promises, still cradling her form with affection.

"Elouise has never done anything lightly in your tenure together. I would trust... She knows what is best." The angel is unsure of how to coax her into something even she is unsure of. Yet, she knows her faith would not mislead her. "I will be with you in spirit, gorgeous girl. And it is not as if we do not have plenty of platforms to communicate with."

Her heartbeat quickens, a sense of urgency and panic filling her chest. The idea of Soleil, an ocean away, fills her with an insurmountable dread. Yet, she is letting her go without protest. At least, none she will make Soleil aware of. "Come on," she murmurs against her wife's ear, hands drifting in the way they did when Rhiannon intended to have her way. "If we only have a few hours..."

She trails off as she pulls back enough to press a kiss against her wife's neck, feet already backing up towards the stairs. "We shouldn't waste another minute."

The scene before her grants little comfort as Rhiannon slides into one of the bar stools nestled against the kitchen island, brow knit with tempered concern as Soleil takes yet another shot. Rhiannon's disinterest in the liquor is obvious, as she leaves the second glass alone.

'I've been called back to Moscow'.

Not 'we'. But 'I'. Soleil, a solitary unit. Rhiannon moves to speak, but not a word exits the angel's mouth at first. Instead, she stands, stepping around the counter. Calm hands stop those of her wife, pushing the shot glass away. "I assume, tonight?" She's pulling Soleil in, arms closing around her body, cherishing the contact. "We'll be okay." She adds in a quiet tone, simply holding her wife in place, anchoring her to the moment.

It's not just in words. It's the way your heartbeat is the only thing that lulls me to sleep. The sweet little kisses you wake me up with on the rare occasion you're up before me. The way your hand finds mine over the transmission when we're driving. It's the little actions that reaffirm the universal truth, Soleil.
*guides her back towards the bed*
It's the way you look at me, when you think I don't notice. The little blushes and smiles... Love is in everything you do. To be loved is one thing. But to be cherished... You have given a whole new meaning to the word.

Rhiannon reaches for the champagne, taking a swig before setting the bottle aside entirely. She's rising and moving, turning to face Soleil. There's an unadulterated level of elation that fills her spirit, an electric sense of happiness that spreads from her fingers to her toes as her fingers tangle themselves into damp blonde tresses, pulling her wife into a kiss, which length and capacity for affection leaves even Rhiannon breathless afterwards. "No," she shakes her head, caramel eyes wide in awe.

"You don't get it, Soleil. It's you." She restates, giddy as she leans in for another enthusiastic kiss. "I was meant for you. To protect you, to love you, to guard you from harm. Do you understand, now? It's... It's you."

"Not too mad I woke you up?" She inquires in a quiet tone, arms encircling the women whose body now pressed her into the mattress. She already knows the answer, but in her classic manner, the angel never wishes to be obtrusive. Content beyond measure, she reaches for another kiss. "I've lived a thousand different lives. Nothing compares to this."

Her honesty is unmasked, the sincerity clear in the caramel eyes her wife is so drawn to. And then, dozens of affirmations of love spill from her lips, Rhiannon oozing warmth and affection as she touches upon every detail of her wife she loves. "I am so in love with you."

Rhiannon was content, for this first time in a few days, to wake up beside Soleil in the early morning of what promised to be another lazy, happy Saturday. So early, in fact, the sun was only just cresting over the New York City skyline. The house was silent, not even the kittens finding cause to play. A smile in its purest form tugged against the angel’s lips as she peered down at her wife, whom she had fallen asleep on top of, though this was nothing new. She lifts a hand to brush away the stray strands of blonde hair that obscure her slumbering face, her own smile only growing as she continues.

With nothing left in the way, she leans in, pressing her lips gently against the pair hers belonged to. “Good Morning,” she whispers earnestly, so consumed with love she couldn’t help but wake her beloved wife. Seeing as her wife is notoriously difficult to stir, the angel is dead set on making it happen. In that moment, she needed nothing more than her wife’s undivided attention, time of day be damn. Those same lips kiss either closed eyelid, peppering all over her face as she wordlessly urges the woman to wake up. Pesky? Naturally, but that was what she hoped endeared her further into Soleil’s heart.

“Wake up, Mrs. Whitaker. I’m in desperate need of you.” The statement was honest, simple, however ridiculous. It had only been a few hours, yet, she needed her. And as stubborn as her wife was, she would hopefully understand.

Coffee was exactly what the poor girl needed right now. Her temples throbbed, likely do to the lack of caffeine and sleep in her system. She hadn't had any sleep in close to three days, and it had been even longer since her last cup of joe. Eagerly, Elisa followed the woman's gesture and made her way to the corner. She could almost taste the french vanilla right now.

"I've just never had someone cool with a stranger reaching into their back pockets..." Elisa offered a toothy grin. Not all people were awful pricks, and she was going to have to realize that eventually. "I'll have to make sure Zack is up for it, but I don't think he could turn down the pizza... and I'll supply the booze. It's the least I can do for my actions... I’ve really got to get better at that.” It was meant as a joke, but Elisa had a weird sense of humor.

Rhiannon is silent as her wife struggles to admit her path up until this point. The angel is perplexed, of course, by her wife's sudden lack of purpose. College could give someone a few steps ahead in life, yes, but it was not the only definitive way to earn and succeed. "Soleil." She chides, a hand moving to catch her chin and lift her head back up to meet her gaze. "If you are not happy where you are, then we will look for something better. If you want to go back to school, you can take it a few classes at a time. But," She pauses, hands moving to Soleil's shoulders.

"Do not ever presume monetary means are the most meaningful contributions. I want you to pursue a career that fulfills you and gives you purpose. If that is still music, then I support you. If you want something else, I support it. And if you have absolutely no idea what you want yet... I'm not going anywhere."

With a loving smile, Rhiannon leans in to kiss her wife's forehead. "You can be anything you set your mind to, Soleil. You're stubborn, and you have a work ethic to rival anyone's. Don't doubt your ability to claw your way back to the top."

Trying not to seem too eager, Elisa glanced down at her phone, skimming the through texts as if to check for forgotten plans. She knew there was nothing important for her to attend to currently, but it almost felt lame to just jump at the opportunity. Truth be told, this place was sort of lonely without friends. Most of Ellie's friends had either passed or moved on with their lives, leaving her behind to figure it out on her own.

"Looks like I'm free for the next hour or so." She offered a the woman a friendly smile. "And yes, we should." Elisa could feel a burning sensation in her cheeks. It was quite embarrassing to get caught in an attempt at stealing, but even more embarrassing to be called out for it. "I was thinking about pizza and some drinks if the two of you would happen to be interested?"

As luck would have it, this just wasn't Elisa's day. Last time she would spend all of her money on bail. So strapped for cash, she had been resorting to petty theft...and failing miserably. Never had she been caught in the act, and then apologized to for another's actions. This was certainly a first.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Soleil, I'm Elisa." She offered warmly. "And coffee would be lovely."

Giving a cheeky grin right back, she says, "Had I known you were the lucky lass, I'd have kept my hands to myself!" Quirking her head to the side, Summer lifted a brow in coy thought as she gives the woman an approving glance. "On the other hand, maybe I wouldn't have!"
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you!"

"Me too." She echoed the sentiment with the brightest of smiles, arms cradled around Soleil's waist as the music picks back up. "There can be much, much more of this, you know. New York doesn't have to be a vacation..." Rhiannon knows she is using dancing to seduce her wife into making this city the metropole of their